Upgrade planned for Palm Island child care facilities

Palm Island’s Goodoo Child Care Centre is to be upgraded, thanks to funding from the Queensland Government.

Communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Warren Pitt said $125,000 had been set aside for the work under the Remote Area Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Care (RAATSICC) program.

“The Goodoo Child Care Centre will use the funds to upgrade building facilities and replace equipment,” Mr Pitt said.

“The work is necessary for the centre to meet legislative requirements so it can continue to provide this much-needed service to local families.”

Member for Townsville Mike Reynolds said work on the upgrade would start once the management committee obtains acceptable quotes from registered providers to carry out the improvements.

“The Department of Communities’ Strengthening Indigenous Non-Government Organisations officer in north Queensland is helping the child care centre’s management committee with planning and tendering,” he said.

Mr Pitt said the RAATSICC program was a significant Queensland Government initiative to address the child care needs of families within Indigenous communities.

“Funds have also been identified for similar upgrades for child care operations at Napranum, Pormpuraaw, New Mapoon and Mornington Island communities,” he said.

Media contacts:     Minister Pitt’s Office 3235 4280
                           Mr Reynolds’ Office 4772 4711