New Childcare Centre Proposal to Alleviate Deniliquin's Shortage and Support Families

Deniliquin faces a serious shortage of childcare places, with nearly 300 children on waitlists and families leaving town because of the lack of options. This shortage affects not only families but also the community’s workforce, especially women working in health, education, community services, and aged and disability support. To address this urgent need, River Region Early Education (RREE) has announced plans to build a new 110-place childcare centre in partnership with the Edward River Council.

The Childcare Crisis in Deniliquin

Deniliquin’s childcare shortage is more than just an inconvenience. With Deni Childcare Centre’s waitlist nearing 300 children, many families struggle to find reliable care for their young ones. This shortage forces some families to move away from the area, which reduces the local population and impacts community services. Female-dominated professions such as healthcare, education, and community support are particularly affected, as many workers cannot return to their jobs without childcare.

The lack of childcare options creates a ripple effect:

• Parents face increased stress and reduced work hours.

• Local businesses and services experience staffing shortages.

• The community’s growth and wellbeing are hindered.

  
  

Partnership to Build a New Childcare Centre

River Region Early Education has teamed up with the Edward River Council to develop a new childcare centre that will provide 110 places. This project aims to ease the pressure on existing centres and support families who currently have no access to childcare.

The council has identified Perrin Park as the preferred location for the new centre. This site offers ample space and accessibility for families across Deniliquin.

Funding and Support for the Project

Securing funding is a critical step in making the new childcare centre a reality. Member for Murray, Helen Dalton, has successfully secured $1 million from Origin Energy to support the project. This significant contribution will help cover construction and operational costs.

Additionally, Pottinger Park (Someva Renewables) has committed $10,000 towards the planning stage. These funds will assist with development applications and design work, ensuring the project moves forward efficiently.

The estimated project cost is $7 million- and all sources of grant and philanthropic funding will be explored.

Planning and Timeline

The project team is currently preparing an application for Development Approval. The goal is to have the childcare centre "shovel ready" by 2026, meaning all approvals and plans will be in place to begin construction without delay.

This timeline reflects careful planning to meet community needs while ensuring the centre is built to high standards.

What This Means for Deniliquin Families

The new childcare centre will provide much-needed relief for families struggling to find care. With 110 new places, more children will have access to quality early education and care close to home.

This development will also help:

• Keep families in Deniliquin by providing local childcare options.

• Support women returning to work in vital community roles.

• Strengthen the local economy by stabilizing the workforce.

  
  

How the Community Can Stay Involved

Community members can follow the project’s progress through updates from River Region Early Education and Edward River Council. Public consultations and information sessions will be held as the project advances, offering opportunities for feedback and involvement.

Families interested in enrolling their children should stay connected with local childcare providers to learn about new openings as the centre nears completion.