WA Budget 2025–26: key investments for the Mid West supporting early learning, health and community wellbeing

The Cook Labor Government’s 2025–26 State Budget outlines significant investment in regional Western Australia, with the Mid West region set to benefit from upgrades in infrastructure, health services, education, and community programs.

More than $10 billion has been committed to regional initiatives, including over $4 billion through the Royalties for Regions program. The Budget reaffirms the Government’s focus on ensuring equitable access to essential services regardless of geography.

Early learning and school readiness initiatives

For early childhood education and care (ECEC) professionals, the Budget highlights a continued commitment to child and family wellbeing. Key measures include:

• $28 million to expand the School Breakfast Program, offering free daily meals at more than 650 schools, including those in the Mid West supporting nutrition and learning readiness.
• $29 million for a nation-first trial of free, full-time, school-based kindergarten, with infrastructure upgrades at five regional pilot sites.
• $30.3 million for the School of Isolated and Distance Education, broadening learning access for children in remote areas.
• $10 million for additional transportable classrooms in regional schools, responding to population growth and supporting inclusive education.
• Over $4 million for minor infrastructure works across 70+ public and non-government schools.

These investments reflect an increasing emphasis on integrated service delivery for children aged birth to eight, with closer alignment between early learning and school environments.

Health and family support

The Budget also allocates $121 million to regional health and mental health services, including:

• Establishment of a Virtual Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service Hub, to reach families across WA.
• Redevelopment planning for the Geraldton Health Campus, with additional investment in oncology and renal care services.

These initiatives aim to close service gaps and improve outcomes for children and families navigating complex or unmet health needs.

This Budget represents a whole-of-government effort to enhance outcomes for children, families and regional communities. ECEC providers in the Mid West are encouraged to consider how these investments can support their service goals, including Quality Improvement Plans, partnerships with local schools, and family engagement strategies.