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Govt wants council talks
“A further 26 locations for our new government-owned and affordable child care centres have also been announced, including the Loddon Shire.
Trains, vans on the plains
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HERITAGE caravans and trains will be in the Loddon this weekend.
UNCERTAINTY continues on the location of a Loddon child care centre promised by the State Government.
The Government says it is in the planning stage to determine options for the centre in rural Victoria’s only child care desert. While the Government last week said it would work closely with local government ahead of the 2026 promised opening, Loddon Shire is yet to be contacted.
Council has steered clear of the child care space but advocated for greater support and subsidy for business to establish centres in the shire.
A council spokesperson on Monday said: “We are unsure what role council will play in the State Government selection of a town.
“Council has not had any contact with the State Government at this time and therefore it is too early to speculate on details such as location.”
The Government last June announced it would open child care centres in areas of most need and during the November election campaign said Loddon Shire would be one of 26 centres in the second tranche to open in 2026.
Ripon MP Martha Haylett last week said: “Last year the State Labor Government announced 50 new government-owned and affordable child care centres to be built across Victoria. They will be in locations with the greatest need to make it easier for families to access education and care close to home.
“I’m really excited that Loddon Shire has been announced as a location for a governmentowned centre, so that locals can access high-quality and affordable child care and kinder services for their little ones.
“Communities across the shire will be consulted extensively to make sure the new centre meets the needs of local families.”
The Government said: “Planning is underway for the four child care centres announced to open in 2025, including consultation with stakeholders.
