March 2007

Laverton children’s centre opens

Children will have access to high-quality care, education and family support at a new Laverton centre.

Minister for Children Lisa Neville opened the $2.3 million Laverton Community Children’s Centre in Crown Street.

‘It will have long day care, kindergarten programs, occasional care, play groups, consulting rooms and even a toy library.

‘Family support services will also be provided at the centre through the Caroline Chisholm Society.

‘The Government contributed $500,000 towards this facility under a $16 million, three-year State program to establish up to 60 Children’s Centres across Victoria.

‘So far, 19 Children’s Centres are already up and running for Victorians aged six years and under.’

Ms Neville said the project was a partnership between the Government, Hobsons Bay City Council and Laverton Community Centre.

Council put in $1.5 million and the community centre $300,000.

‘The centre is designed to respond to both the environment and clients’ needs.

‘It has rooms for the Maternal and Child Health Enhanced Home Visiting Service, Community Health Centre, Caroline Chisholm Society and other visiting Early Childhood Intervention Services.

‘Laverton Community Children’s Centre can house counselling services such as health promotion, mothers’ groups, teen parents and men’s parenting groups plus family-oriented volunteer services,’ Ms Neville said.