Additional $200,000 funding boost to Augusta childcare project

• Cook Government invests a further $200,000 in Augusta childcare facility
• New funding brings total Cook Government investment to $550,000
• Part of the Cook Government's commitment to meeting the needs of families in regional communities

The Cook Government continues to support the Augusta community's vision to establish a sought-after childcare service, today announcing a further $200,000 towards transforming a vacant State-owned building into a fit-for-purpose facility in the South West town.

A total of $550,000 has now been committed to the project to assist Augusta and Districts Community Childcare Inc. (ADCC) to complete refurbishment and fit-out of the building following cost increases.

Funding was previously announced towards capital works to redevelop the State-owned asset on Hillview Road into a fit-for-purpose childcare facility and to purchase equipment.

The new funding brings Augusta a step closer to an appropriate childcare solution for local families and workers, providing the community with up to 30 childcare places and creating between 8-10 local jobs.

Once completed, it's expected the new childcare service will help to attract and retain residents, as well as unlock the local workforce currently restricted by a lack of childcare options in the area.

The Cook Government's investment in childcare is part of an ongoing commitment to developing regional communities and improving access to services.

Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Don Punch:

"It is important to support quality of life in regional Western Australia. That means access to services such as childcare so that children are looked after and their parents can work if they chose to.

"I am pleased to support this project which addresses a gap and promises to provide a welcome boost to the Augusta community.

"The Cook Government has listened and backed community-led efforts to have a childcare facility - and we've followed through on our commitment to find a childcare solution for this community."

Comments attributed to Early Childhood Education Minister Sabine Winton:

"This is a welcome boost towards what will be a vital service for the Augusta community.

"Our Government knows access to quality early childhood and care services plays an important role in regional economies, enabling parents to return to work and supporting the operation of regional businesses.

"I look forward to visiting Augusta again and seeing how this early learning centre will positively impact children and families once completed."

Comments attributed to Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie:

"Since 2021, I have been working alongside Augusta and Districts Community Childcare Inc. (ADCC) to secure a childcare service for the Augusta community.

"I am proud to have advocated as a member of the Cook Government for this additional funding, which has seen more than half a million dollars invested into my initial $100,000 election commitment.

"This facility will be a game changer for Augusta, giving local residents more flexibility to live and work in the community they love."