Joint Statement - Major upgrades to save childcare centres from shutting doors

Joint Statement – Major upgrades to save childcare centres from shutting doors

David Southwick, Member for Caulfield

James Newbury, Member for Brighton

25 June 2022.

Childcare centres in Melbourne’s inner south-east won’t be forced to shut their doors, should the Liberals and Nationals be elected in November.

While the Andrews Labor Government ignores the concerns of the community, a Matthew Guy Liberals and Nationals Government will contribute $5 million to upgrade three Port Phillip Council childcare centres that are in desperate need of refurbishment.

Eildon Road Children’s Centre in St Kilda, Elwood Children’s Centre in Elwood and the Avenue Children’s Centre and Kindergarten in Balaclava currently operate from outdated council-owned buildings, which require significant maintenance upgrades to remain operational.

Without urgent State Government funding support to refurbish the buildings, Port Phillip Council will be forced to sell the three childcare centres.

Families deserve access to quality childcare, and we will support Council to ensure these vitally important centres aren’t forced to shut their doors.

The commitment also forms part of the Liberals and Nationals’ plan for better childcare, which includes making three and four year old kindergarten free – saving Victorian families up to $2500 per year.

Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party, David Southwick, said supporting the learning and growth of children in their first years of life was vital.

“This commitment by the Liberals and Nationals will put families’ minds at ease, knowing their local childcare centre won’t be shut down,” Mr Southwick said.

“Not only will we keep the doors open, we will support all Victorian families struggling under a rise in the cost of living by making kindergarten free for three and four year old’s.”

Member for Brighton, James Newbury, said the commitment would ensure children get the best start.

“These buildings have been in desperate need of upgrade for years, and the Liberals and Nationals will ensure the work is done so that children have access to the best facilities close to home,” Mr Newbury said.

“Investing in our kids sets them up for life, and parents and families deserve to have a quality childcare option just around the corner.

“A $5 million commitment will deliver just that.”

James Newbury, Member for Brighton

David Southwick, Member for Caulfield