The new ELCC is one of 50 new government-owned and operated facilities, and will increase the number of services in Campaspe Shire.
“We’re helping meet the demand for these vital services across the wider Campaspe community by bringing quality early education and childcare to Lockington,” Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said.
Lockington was chosen based on Campaspe Shire Council recommendations, instead of Rochester as originally planned.
The temporary facility at Rochester Secondary College will also be replaced with a new permanent kindergarten.
“Council is pleased that the Victorian Government has announced the redevelopment of the Rochester kindergarten and whilst we are supportive of their decision to build a new early learning and childcare centre in Lockington, we will continue to advocate for childcare services in other small townships across our municipality,” Campaspe Shire Mayor Rob Amos said.
The current Shine Bright Rochester Kindergarten will remain open during construction, allowing children to continue attending.
“Through our nation-leading $14 billion Best Start, Best Life reforms, we are transforming early childhood education to help children thrive, save families money, and support parents and carers to return to work or study if they choose,” Victorian Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn said.
“We’re investing in our littlest learners and delivering new early learning facilities where they are needed most.”
The first four new ELCCs will open in 2025. A further 14 will open in 2026, 12 over 2027 and 2028, and the remaining 20 centres by 2032.
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