Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards MP has announced that three kindergartens across the Bendigo West electorate are receiving upgrades thanks to the latest round of the Allan Labor Government’s Building Blocks grants program:
- Castlemaine South Kindergarten, $699,807
This project will address functionality issues at South Castlemaine Kindergarten, providing an accessible toilet and entrance with ramp, a larger office and meeting room, larger foyer and new storeroom.
- Shine Bright Marong Kindergarten, $89,511
The improvement works at the Marong Kindergarten are to increase accessibility for children of all abilities, including a new sandpit, upgraded children’s bathroom sinks and new vinyl plank flooring.
- Lightning Reef YMCA ELC, $104,478
Lightning Reef YMCA ELC seeks to introduce five new shade zones, an indigenous plant garden and a yarning circle to enhance the learning environment for children now and for future generations.
Across the state, more than 1,248 kindergartens across Victoria are sharing in $28 million of funding to upgrade facilities and buy equipment.
“I know how hard the Mount Alexander Shire Council have worked to advocate for Castlemaine South’s upgrade, so this funding is a great outcome for the entire community," Ms Edwards said.
“Every child deserves a safe and inviting learning environment, that’s why the Allan Labor Government continues to invest in local kindergartens.
“I look forward to seeing these projects across Bendigo West get started.”
The Building Blocks Program offers grants to contribute to kindergarten infrastructure and is critical to ensure the success of the roll-out of the Best Start, Best Life reforms across Victoria.
Since the Labor Government launched it in 2020, Building Blocks has invested more than $200 million to plan and build new and improved early childhood services across the state.
Through our nation-leading $14 billion Best Start, Best Life reforms, the Labor Government is transforming early childhood education to help children thrive, save families money and support parents – especially women – to return to work or study if they choose.
The Victorian Budget 2024/25 delivered a new investment of $128.6 million to continue delivery of Best Start, Best Life, including Free Kinder, Pre-Prep, Three-Year-Old Kindergarten and Early Learning and Childcare Centres.
For more information on the program and successful applicants visit schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au.
