Six sites selected for new early childhood services

The Queensland Government has finalised the locations of six early childhood education and care centres that will provide extensive support for young Queenslanders and their families.

Communities Minister Warren Pitt told a parliamentary Estimates Committee hearing today that six decommissioned preschools across Queensland would be modified to provide early childhood services.

He said the six sites – at Toowoomba, Ayr, Mackay, Nanango, Beaudesert and Beenleigh – were part of the government’s four-year, $54 million Best Start initiative, which had been announced during last year's election.

“What we are doing is providing nearby services in those specific areas with more childcare services and longer opening hours,” Mr Pitt said.

“This gives families more childcare options to make life easier during the transition through early childhood. It will also make it easier for working parents to better align their working hours with childcare services.”

The locations of the six early childhood education and care centres are:
• Ayr – Macmillan St (formerly the Ayr State Preschool)
• Mackay – Shakespeare St (formerly the Victoria Park State Preschool)
• Nanango – Drayton St (formerly the Nanango State Preschool)
• Beaudesert – 60 Bimam St (formerly the Beaudesert State Preschool)
• Beenleigh – Elizabeth St (formerly the Beenleigh State Preschool)
• Toowoomba – corner of Mort and Taylor streets (formerly the Toowoomba North State Preschool)

Mr Pitt said $12.2 million had been allocated in the 2007-08 State Budget as part of the $14.3 million project to upgrade the six decommissioned pre-schools and establish them as community-based early childhood services.

He said that the upgrades were pivotal in the educational development of children and for the ongoing provision of quality early childhood education and care services in areas across the State.

“The refurbished facilities will combine a range of current community-based services, creating a hub for childcare with improved quality and resources,” Mr Pitt said.

Media contact: Joe Begley 3235 4280