Ararat Rural City Council has received the updated Kindergarten Infrastructure and Services Plan (KISP), prepared in partnership with the Victorian Department of Education as part of the Best Start, Best Life reforms.
The KISP includes long-term modelling of demand for kindergarten and Pre-Prep services across Ararat Rural City from 2025 to 2036. This modelling shows that from 2026 there will be a shortfall of kindergarten places in Ararat township, while services in the wider municipality, such as Lake Bolac and Willaura, are forecast to have sufficient capacity until 2036.
The updated plan will be used by the Department of Education when considering future investment in kindergarten facilities. Council will continue to work closely with the Department and local providers, including the Y Kinders who operate sessional kindergarten programs from Council-managed facilities, to address demand and ensure families have access to services.
Council had been working with early years stakeholders in the lead up to the commencement of Pre-Prep at the start of 2025, including securing a Building Blocks - Improvement Grant to refurbish Jack & Jill Kindergarten. This project will be delivered as part of the Council's Capital Works Program for 2025/26. Council continues to advocate for facility updates at Ararat North Kindercare, located within Ararat North Primary School, as well as the renewal of aged kindergarten infrastructure.
Ararat Rural City Council CEO, Dr Tim Harrison, said the update provides a clear picture of opportunities for early years planning in the municipality.
"This plan is about making sure there are enough kindergarten places in the right locations for our growing community," Dr Harrison said. "We know the introduction of Pre-Prep has doubled hours of attendance, so demand is increasing quickly. It is important that families in Ararat have certainty that places will be available close to where they live."
"This updated plan also supports Council's role in working with the Department of Education, service providers, and the community to make sure the infrastructure is there when it is needed. It's a collaborative process, and we will continue to advocate strongly for new kindergarten facilities where the evidence shows demand is going to exceed supply."
The Department of Education will lead the planning for new or extended services in Ararat to address the projected shortfall. Council will keep the community informed as this work progresses.
