WA Government directs additional $250,000 to new ECEC facility in Augusta

The Western Australian Government will direct an additional $250,000 towards an early childhood education and care (ECEC) facility in Augusta as well as offering a state-owned building to support the initiative. 

 

With the additional $250,000, the total investment toward the Augusta and Districts Community Childcare Inc. (ADCC) is $350,000. Once complete, the redevelopment of the building will facilitate the establishment of a sought-after ECEC service in a fit-for-purpose space.

 

Equipment will also be purchased for the service, in addition to supporting capital works to bring the state-owned asset up to standard. The WA Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage will now work with the ADCC to progress lease negotiations.

  

“Access to childcare (sic.) is vital to giving families more options and improving the lives of children,” said Regional Development Minister Don Punch.

 

“I am pleased a state-owned building in Augusta has now been secured to use as a childcare centre. The new funding announced will allow for refurbishment works to be carried out that will ensure the property meets standards and is fit-for-purpose.”

 

WA Early Childhood Education Minister Sabine Winton agreed, saying “this is a welcome boost for the Augusta community”. 

  

“I know we all look forward to seeing the positive impact the childcare centre will make in Augusta once completed.”

 

Local politician Jane Kelsbie welcomed the announcement after two years of working alongside  ADCC to secure a childcare facility in Augusta.

 

“Having been a single-working parent myself, I understand how vital childcare is for working families, carers and local businesses,” she said. 

 

“I am so pleased that we have been able to secure the lease of a state-owned building and an additional $250,000 to support the renovation and launch of the facility. This funding represents more than a tripling of my initial $100,000 election commitment to ADCC in 2021.”