VIC Government commits to $1.68 billion in ECEC improvements

The Victorian Government has committed to building and upgrading approximately 1,000 kindergarten facilities across the state, with an investment cost of $1.68 billion over the next decade.

Under the plan, 785 new facilities will be built, with 170 existing services upgraded and expanded. Victoria currently has around 2,400 services providing kindergarten programs, and the investment represents a 40 per cent increases in services statewide.

The increase in capacity, in line with the federal Labor party’s commitment to support Universal Access funding should they be successful in winning the election, will create approximately 5,000 construction jobs in Victoria.

To expedite construction, the Victorian Government said that it is committed to working with councils and communities on the roll-out for their local services from day one.

The announcement was made today by Premier Daniel Andrews, and Minister for Early Childhood Education, Jenny Mikakos, while visiting Andrews Community Kindergarten in Pakenham.

The investment includes an injection of funds into the Children’s Facilities Capital Program, which provides financial support to councils and community organisations to fund their own builds and upgrades.

Representing a significant investment in the years before school, today’s announcement reflects the growing need for children’s services in Victoria, where is is anticipated some regions, such as Geelong, will require 1,000 extra kindergarten places by 2029, equivalent to more than 20 new early education services.

“This investment will help get Victorian kids ready for school and set them up for life.” Premier Andrews said.