Huonville progresses new centre with 200 early learning and OSHC places planned

A new early childhood education and care centre in Tasmania’s Huon Valley has moved closer to construction, with planning approval and funding secured and a preferred builder selected.

The purpose-built Huonville Early Childhood Education and Care Centre will be co-located with Huonville Primary School. According to the joint government announcement, construction is scheduled to begin by mid-2027 and finish by mid-2028.

The centre is planned to provide up to 130 long day care places and 70 outside school hours care places, supporting up to 200 children in total.

The Australian Government has committed $5 million through its $1 billion Building Early Education Fund, matched by a $5 million contribution from the Tasmanian Government. Huon Valley Council will provide the remaining funding and deliver and operate the service.

These arrangements were outlined in the earlier funding announcement.

The new facility will replace the existing council-owned service known as the Cottage and nearly double its capacity, Huon Valley Mayor Sally Doyle said.

Council identifies population growth and insufficient existing childcare places as key reasons for the project. It currently operates early learning and care services in Huonville, Geeveston and Dover.

Planned for 74–82 Wilmot Road, the new centre is intended to improve access to affordable early learning and help families connect with allied health and other support services alongside childcare. Council’s concept plans include north and south wings and on-site parking.

Federal Minister for Early Childhood Education Jess Walsh said locating the service alongside Huonville Primary School would support children’s transition to school and make drop-offs more convenient for families.

Mayor Doyle said the project would also support construction employment and generate up to 10 new full-time childcare roles once fully operational.

Council expects to formally appoint the builder in the coming month. The contractor will finalise the design and construct the facility, with final designs to be shared with the community as they develop.

Families can follow updates through the Huonville Early Childhood Education Centre project page.