Whyalla Childcare Centre to get $900,000 expansion in 2023

A nearly $900,000 expansion of the Whyalla Childcare Centre through extensions and upgrades is due to begin in 2023, which should result in an increase in licenced places and a subsequent rise in the availability of care in the town. 

The Council is currently seeking tenders from local suppliers to complete the works having received  $448,250 from the Australian Government Department of Education through the Community Child Care Fund to help fund the works.

As part of the funding criteria for the grant the Council agreed to match the government grant with a dollar-for-dollar investment, bringing the total price of the works to around $896,000.

“The centre will remain operational [open] while the works take place. The upgrades and expansion work to the current facilities will take place with a staged approach to ensure as little disruption to service as possible,” the council said in a statement.

During the work the existing building will be upgraded, while an extension will also be built to include a new baby room with bathroom facilities, along with a new front entrance, foyer spaces and offices.

Mayor Phill Stone said the centre had provided a wonderful and much-needed service to the community for 45 years, however it was now overdue for a renovation.

“These upgrades will provide a fresh environment and some much-needed space for the families and staff that currently use the centre, as well as for future generations to follow,” the Mayor said.

“The facility has seen minor works over the years, but nothing of capital significance, so it’s time for this investment to improve the facilities for our families and the staff.”

Tender submissions will close at 2pm, 5 January 2023.