New childcare services for Melbourne's north
Melbourne's childcare services received a significant boost today with the official opening of an Aboriginal children and family centre in the city's north.
Minister for children and early child+hood development Wendy Lovell said the Bubup Wilam for Early Learning Centre, which cost more than $8 million, in Thomastown provided significant benefit to Aboriginal children and families.
With increased childcare facilities in Thomastown as a result of the centre, families looking at buying a house or rental properties may be drawn to the area.
Ms Lovell said the new facility, named after the Aboriginal term 'children's place', was in close proximity to the secondary and primary schools which would allow a smoother integration process for the children.
"Providing a one-stop-shop for families will help make sure that children grow up healthy, happy, engaged in learning and connected to their community," Ms Lovell explained.
"This centre will live up to its name, bringing a range of early childhood and family services together under one roof."
Catering specifically for Aboriginal families and children, the centre provides day care and kindergarten resources, as well as facilities for consultations relating to family and children services.
