A project to bring together primary school, kindergarten and childcare services in Jeparit will become a reality under an elected Liberal and Nationals Government.
The Nationals Member for Lowan Emma Kealy visited Jeparit Primary School today to announce a commitment to create an education hub for the town, which plans to incorporate Jeparit’s kindergarten into the primary school site and would also allow for the provision of childcare services.
The project will involve the conversion of a current building to meet future kindergarten requirements. Currently, Emerge Early Years Services operates the Jeparit Kindergarten, and it is anticipated that the primary school and Emerge will work together to facilitate services in the education hub.
Ms Kealy said the project, driven by the school and supported by By Five Early Years Initiative and Hindmarsh Shire Council, would provide long-term security for local families.
“The school has lobbied for this hub for years, but despite government representatives visiting the site last year and promising a quote for the works, Labor has done nothing since,” she said.
“The hub concept has widespread support and would deliver services far more cost-efficiently and make it easier for young families accessing these services.
“This is a sustainable solution for the community, and I am proud that a Liberals and Nationals Government will ensure this project comes to fruition.”
Ms Kealy said the commitment was part of the Liberal and Nationals’ team Fair Share Guarantee, locking in 25 per cent of the state’s infrastructure investment for regional Victoria.
“Jeparit should not have to compete with Melbourne for every dollar of infrastructure investment,” she said.
“Regional Victoria deserves its fair share, and this commitment is about backing the Jeparit community’s youngest residents to ensure they have the best possible opportunity to thrive.”