Major Milestone Achieved for Perrin Park Early Learning Centre

River Region Early Education is delighted to celebrate an exciting milestone in the delivery of the Perrin Park Early Learning Centre, with the project's Development Application (DA) approved by the independent Western Regional Planning Panel.

This approval marks an important step towards creating a purpose-built early learning centre that will provide much-needed childcare places for children and families across the Edward River region.

For many local families, accessing childcare has become increasingly challenging, particularly for children under three years of age. Long waitlists and limited availability impact not only families, but also local businesses, workforce participation and the long-term growth of our community. The Perrin Park Early Learning Centre has been designed to help address this need by increasing access to high-quality early childhood education and care.

At River Region Early Education, we know that the early years lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning, wellbeing and success. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, play and thrive in a nurturing environment, and every family deserves access to quality care that supports them to work, study and contribute to their community.

General Manager Felicity Michael said the approval was an exciting milestone for everyone involved in the project.

"This approval is a welcome development for everyone involved in the project and, most importantly, for the families who will benefit from these additional childcare places," Ms Michael said.

"Quality early learning gives children the best possible start in life, and we're proud to be working alongside Edward River Council to help meet the increasing demand for childcare in our region. We look forward to continuing the journey and seeing this important community asset become a reality."

The approval follows extensive planning and collaboration between River Region Early Education, Edward River Council and a range of project partners and supporters. We sincerely thank everyone who has contributed to reaching this milestone, including Edward River Council for its partnership and leadership, Origin Energy for its significant funding commitment, and Helen Dalton MP for her ongoing advocacy.

While there is still work ahead before construction begins, Development Approval provides confidence that the project is progressing well. The Perrin Park Early Learning Centre represents more than a new building—it is an investment in the future of our children, families and community.

We look forward to sharing further updates as the project continues to progress and thank our community for its ongoing support as we work together to create more opportunities for children to access exceptional early childhood education close to home.