Andrews Government to create 50 early education centres if re-elected

The towns in northern Victoria would be included in the second round of early education centres, with the first four being located Eaglehawk North, Fawkner, Murtoa and Sunshine.

The first four would open in 2025 with the 46 others, including those in Greater Shepparton, all to be operational by 2028.

The Andrews Government is also promising to invest in $584 million across the 50 services.

A further $159 million will be promised as part of a major workforce package aimed at attracting, retaining and developing early childhood educators.

Early Childhood and Pre-Prep Minister Ingrid Stitt has praised the work of early childhood educators and said Victorian Labor would strive to look after the sector and its workers.

“Our early childhood educators do an incredible job. We’ll back their work with more opportunities to upskill, retrain and start a new career,” Ms Stitt said.

This would include 700 extra early childhood scholarships to be made available to people looking to become early childhood teachers through undergraduate degree pathways.

Extra incentives of between $9000 and $50,000 for teachers and educators moving into, or rejoining, the sector and for priority services in places that struggle to find qualified staff are also in the offering.

Premier Daniel Andrews is hoping the education investments will reduce financial burdens on families.

“Our childcare centres will mean a high-quality, low-cost option for the communities that need it most. Most importantly, it’ll give parents certainty and kids the bright start they deserve,” Mr Andrews said.

“Labor is doing what matters — making kinder free, easing pressure on household budgets and giving every Victorian child the best start, for the best life.”