The Minister for Early Childhood Education and Child Care Kate Ellis and Victorian Minister for Children and Early Childhood Development Maxine Morand today announced that work has started on stage two of a new centre for children and their families at Craigieburn.

The Rudd Labor Government is investing $1.6 million, the Brumby Labor Government $1.4 million and the Hume City Council is providing $3.3 million for the centre.

The Commonwealth is investing $114.5 million in 38 early learning and care centres across Australia, while the Brumby Labor Government is building 99 integrated children’s centres across the state.

“We’re joining forces to create a hub of children’s services for Craigieburn families, including 60 new child care places,” Ms Ellis said.

“The integrated hub will feature maternal and child health services, long day care, occasional care, family support services, early childhood intervention services and recreational spaces to meet the needs of local working families.

“Early childhood education is crucial to the social, emotional and educational growth of our children. Studies show that a quality early childhood experience can overcome disadvantage and set children on a path to a happy and healthy life,” Ms Ellis said.

Ms Morand said the new centre at Craigieburn is expected to be complete this year.

“Kindergarten services started operation at the centre this month and stage two is expected to be complete in the second half of this year,” Ms Morand said.

“The Brumby Labor Government knows how important early education is for families.

“This centre at Craigieburn is another example of how we’re providing comprehensive, high quality family and children’s services conveniently located for parents under one roof.”

Member for Yuroke Liz Beattie said this new facility is a great benefit to the community.

“It’s great to see the progress being made on this facility, which is already proving to be a great addition to children’s services in this area,” Ms Beattie said.

The Craigieburn centre is one of eleven Early Learning and Care Centres in Victoria, designed to provide high quality, affordable and accessible services to Australian families.

For further information visit www.mychild.gov.auor call 1300 363 079.

Minister Ellis’ Press Secretary:Jayne Stinson 0458 547 512Minister Morand’s Media Adviser: Roxanne Punton 0409 532 287