East Melbourne Child Care Co-operative
Sheena WATT (Northern Metropolitan) (09:46): I was delighted to recently mark the completion of two key local early childhood education upgrades at centres in East Melbourne. First up I officially opened the brand new kids kitchen at Powlett Reserve children’s centre and kindergarten. Kindergarten is where children develop the knowledge and skills that will stick with them for life, and thanks to an investment from the Andrews Labor government the kids at Powlett Reserve can get into the kitchen, get creative and have the best start they can. I was also invited to open the brand new children’s yard at Yarra Park children’s centre. The playground is now much more accessible for children of all abilities to play with ease and safety, and the upgrade was proudly supported by the Andrews Labor government. The second it opened up the kids were swarming all over it, so I am delighted to report that the playground was a hit.
The Andrews Labor government’s commitment to supporting early childhood education is profound. We are investing almost $5 billion over this decade into the sector, as well as making free three- and four-year-old kinder. For families free kinder means more choice, more flexibility and more money saved.
I want to lastly acknowledge the tireless work of the executive director of the East Melbourne Child Care Co-operative Rebecca Vouch as well as all the early childhood educators for the work they do. You ensure our next generation have the very best start in life and set them up for the years to come. I look forward to visiting again.