Western Victorian kindergartens, child care centres, neighbourhood houses and schools will share in $10.7 million in Brumby Government grants to buy equipment, expand surfaces, renovate and improve general amenities.
Four Kindergartens in the Colac Otway Shire have received grants as part of the Brumby Government’s boost to the state’s early childhood services.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney announced funding for:
– Apex Preschool Centre Inc which will receive $93,969 for the removal of asbestos lining and the building of an additional multi purpose space
– Apollo Bay Preschool which will receive $26,000 to improve toilet visibility and new flooring.
– Colac East Kindergarten Inc which will receive $90,000 to extend the Kinder providing larger work areas and a wheelchair accessible bathroom
– And Wydinia Kindergarten Inc which will receive $8,729 to replace rusted plumbing, cracked toilet bowls and to replace damaged flooring.
“These grants will further enable the integration of additional supports and programs to enhance positive outcomes for all children at the Kindergartens,”
“Investing in early childhood services has enormous benefits for children and their families,’’
Ms Tierney said.
Children and Early Childhood Development Minister Maxine Morand said 132 centres across the state will share $7.1 million in renovation and refurbishment grants, while another 812 will share a total of $3.6 million for minor grants.
“With Victoria experiencing a once-in-a-generation baby boom, the Brumby Government investment will support the provision of quality child care early childhood services and infrastructure,’’ Ms Morand said.
Renovation and refurbishment grants include adding or updating multi-purpose rooms, amenities and outdoor play areas and equipment, some as a result of drought conditions and upgrading and replacing items such as roofs, window frames and floor coverings.
Some centres will use their grants to provide facilities to incorporate Maternal and Child Health Centres and other children’s services. Others will be able to offer more places or extended childcare hours, reducing the pressure on fees and fundraising.
Minor upgrades include funding for shade structures, water tanks, air conditioning, fencing, playground equipment and educational resources.
The funding is part of the Brumby Government’s commitment to invest $38.56 million in early childhood capital services announced in December.
