Port Fairy families will have access to a range of children’s services in one convenient location thanks to a $500,000 Brumby Government grant to help establish the Port Fairy Community Services Centre.
Children and Early Childhood Minister Maxine Morand said the Port Fairy Community Services Centre is one of nine new children’s centres to be built thanks to $4.5 million Brumby Government grants.
“These nine new children’s centres build on the 55 children’s centres already operating or being built,’’ Ms Morand said.
“The Brumby Government is taking action to help Victorian families by investing significantly in early years centres which provide parents with a comprehensive range of services.
“With Victoria experiencing the biggest baby boom in a generation, we are boosting services to children and families.’’
Ms Morand said the Port Fairy Community Services Centre will include the relocation of the Port Fairy Kindergarten with programs for up to 60 children, provide an additional 30 child care places, maternal and child health, immunisation, early childhood intervention and a range of broader family and community services.
“Integrated facilities provide a diverse range of services that are very important in supporting the health and development of children and making access to those services more convenient for families’’ Ms Morand said.
Ms Morand said in addition to the Brumby Government’s contribution, the Moyne Shire Council will contribute more than $1.5 million for the project, while the community has also raised $160,000.
“The Port Fairy Community Services Centre is an excellent example of strong partnerships between State and Local Government working together with communities to give children get the best possible start in life,’’ Ms Morand said.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney welcomed the grant announcement saying it would be of great benefit to the community.
“Investing in this children’s centre will have enormous benefits for our children, their families and the community,’’ Ms Tierney said.
“I am very pleased the Brumby Labor Government has provided $500,000 for the Port Fairy Community Services Centre,
“This is a unique project that will enable all members of the community to interact regardless of age which will only strengthen community values and services,” Ms Tierney said.
Other councils around the state to receive funding for new children’s centres are Boroondara, Ballarat, Port Fairy, Moreland, Stonnington, Melbourne, Melton and Whittlesea.
Ms Morand said the Brumby Government has committed to building 40 more children’s centres across the state over four years as part of its $38.5 million boost to early childhood services.