Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn made the announcement last week.
“More childcare options, closer to home: that’s what Victorian parents need, and that’s what we’re delivering,” Ms Allan said.
“We’re making sure more Victorian parents can get back to work when they want to, removing the stress they face in constantly searching for childcare – and most importantly, making sure kids are getting the critical early education they need for the best start in life.”
Cohuna is among 20 locations scheduled to open in 2027 or 2028 and comes after a sustained push from the community, backed by support from Gannawarra Shire.
Gannawarra Shire chief executive officer Geoff Rollinson described the announcement as a “significant milestone in a community-led campaign” to improve the area’s early childhood development and childcare needs.
“Council is pleased to have worked with local families and businesses who have identified the need for improved childcare access for Cohuna and district, which resulted in State Government funding to develop the Exploring Care and Education in Cohuna Final Report,” Mr Rollinson said.
“Council has used this report, which was presented to council earlier this year, to strongly advocate to the State Government the need for a dedicated childcare, Pre-Prep and three-year-old kindergarten space for Cohuna.”
Gannawarra Shire will work with the Victorian Government and educational providers regarding the location of the new centre and construction timelines, as well as the rollout of the Pre-Prep program, which will replace the current four-year-old kindergarten structure in 2025.
“Council continues to work with the Department of Education regarding the rollout of this new program, with details regarding the delivery model, including days and hours for each of Council’s programs to be confirmed in 2024,” Mr Rollinson said.
