New Early Years Hub to be built in Mount Waverley

Published on 11 April 2022

Girl playing in kindergarten

Monash is set to become home to a third Early Years Hub, following the endorsement of a plan to construct a purpose-built facility on the site of the former Waverley Gymnastics Centre last month.

The new facility will offer improved access to kindergarten and additional supports for young children and their families in Mount Waverley.

The Dorrington Drive Early Years Hub will be the third of its kind in Monash, demonstrating Council’s strong commitment to improving the accessibility and quality of early childhood services in Monash.

Monash Mayor Stuart James said the proposal supported Council’s Early Years Infrastructure Plan, which was endorsed in 2021.

“This exciting project will deliver on Council’s vision for all children and young people in Monash to have the best opportunities to grow, learn and thrive in a strong and supported community,” Cr James said.

“As a parent of young children, I have experienced first-hand how difficult it can be for parents and carers to go from one place to another to access essential early childhood services and support, Cr James said. “I’m extremely proud we’re making it easier for our community to do so in a one-stop-shop.”

The proposed two-room facility would look to support the roll-out of the State Government’s three-year-old kindergarten program and provide:

  • An additional 132 kindergarten spaces.
  • A uniquely designed area for playgroups that provides for children with additional needs such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), by including an outdoor education area with a sensory focus.
  • A bespoke immunisation area for children with additional needs who are unable to attend the general community sessions.
  • A purpose designed area for the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Sleep and Settling Service, which would include the co-location of the MCH lactation program.
  • A community space for the provision of programs such as Family Services.

Council will seek funding towards the delivery of this project, with the State Government indicating interest in financially supporting the new hub.

Further design work will be undertaken over the coming months and Council will work with the local community and nearby Huntingtower School to ensure the facility meets needs, both in terms of access to services and residential amenity.

Media Contact: Jo Robertson 0418 391 979 or joanne.robertson@monash.vic.gov.au

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