Federal money for childcare centre

T“It means that families will be able to increase their household income and parents can more easily pursue their career ambitions” – Anne Webster

he Federal Government has committed $845,000 towards building a childcare centre in Murtoa.

The government confirmed funding for the project, which has generated considerable community debate.

The new centre will provide 30 places for the combined Yarriambiack Shire Dunmunkle communities of Minyip, Murtoa and Rupanyup.

It will be designed to improve early education for children and have a positive economic impact on the region.

Member for Mallee Anne Webster said with long wait times to secure places for day-care centres in the Wimmera, the Murtoa facility would fill an identified need.

She said it would also provide more opportunities for skilled members of the community to work in their preferred field or preferred hours.

Dr Webster has strongly advocated for the project in her first term in office.

“I am thrilled to announce this funding for the Murtoa community,” she said.

“This will have an immeasurable impact for local families and will make a game-changing difference.

“This funding means parents will be able to get into work, where they otherwise have not been able to.

“It means that families will be able to increase their household income and parents can more easily pursue their career ambitions.

“Getting childcare centres into regional communities can be challenging, however fierce advocacy from the local community and the backing of the Nationals in government has allowed this feat to become a reality for Dunmunkle.”

Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, who visited the electorate this week, said early childhood education provided a good start to life for young children and they should not miss out just because they didn’t live in a capital city.

“The Nationals can be trusted to represent and stand up for regional Australia,” he said.

“We are committed to building regional Australia and growing essential services such as childcare in regional areas.

“All Australian families deserve access to quality childcare, regardless of where they live.

“Access to quality childcare is good for families, good for communities and good for local economies.”