Additional $250,000 invested towards Augusta childcare facility

• McGowan Government invests $250,000 towards Augusta childcare facility as State-owned building is secured for the initiative
• New funding brings total investment to $350,000 and backs community-led efforts to secure Augusta and Districts Community Childcare Inc.
• Part of McGowan Government's commitment to developing regional communities and improving access to services
  

The McGowan Government has announced funding of $250,000 for the Augusta and Districts Community Childcare Inc. (ADCC) to transform a vacant State-owned building into a fit-for-purpose childcare facility.

Once complete, the redevelopment of the building will facilitate the establishment of a sought-after childcare service.

Equipment will also be purchased for the service, in addition to supporting capital works to bring the State-owned asset up to standard.

The new funding increases the total financial assistance provided to the ADCC to $350,000.

The support for an early childhood education centre in Augusta is another example of the McGowan Government providing regional areas with access to local services that support families and workers in the area.

The Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage will now work with the ADCC to progress lease negotiations.

Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Don Punch:

"Access to childcare is vital to giving families more options and improving the lives of children.

"The McGowan Government has been listening to the Augusta community and we have been active in developing an appropriate childcare solution for local families.

"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."

Comments attributed to Early Childhood Education Minister Sabine Winton:

"This is a welcome boost for the Augusta community.

"Quality early childhood care and education is so important to children, their families and the communities they live and work in.

"Parents, carers and children in Augusta will benefit from this investment - another example of ensuring residents have access to the services that make a difference.

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

Comments attributed to Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie:

"Over the past two years, I have been working alongside Augusta and Districts Community Childcare Inc. (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.

"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.

"It is a great pleasure to advocate on behalf of the community and I'm thrilled to deliver on my commitment for Augusta."

Minister's office - 6552 6900