Families in the Goulburn Valley are a step closer to accessing the free parenting support they need close to home - with the Allan Labor Government revealing the site for the new Shepparton Early Parenting Centre.
Minister for Health Infrastructure Melissa Horne today announced the new multi-million-dollar centre will be built at 6 Evergreen Way, Shepparton - a quiet, accessible site between the Bangerang Cultural Centre and Philippine House.
The purpose-built centre will help parents with children from birth to four years, offering help with sleep and settling, feeding and care for babies and toddlers with additional needs - giving local families expert guidance when they need it most.
Designed to feel like a home away from home, the Shepparton Early Parenting Centre will feature 10 residential family units, four day-stay places, shared kitchen and dining areas, a multi-purpose room, a playroom, various outdoor spaces and onsite parking.
Sleep and settling issues are among the most common challenges new parents face - with around half of families attending Early Parenting Centres reporting problems with their child's sleep. Without support, sleep issues can lead to post-natal depression and impact a child's health and development.
Following a thorough selection process, 6 Evergreen Way was chosen as the site for its easy access via car and public transport and location close to shops, healthcare and other local services.
The Labor Government is investing more than $196 million to expand Victoria's network of 13 Early Parenting Centres - including a dedicated Aboriginal-led centre in Frankston, upgrades in Noble Park and Footscray, and new centres in Northcote, Hastings, Wyndham, Whittlesea, Casey, Bendigo, Ballarat and Geelong.
Once complete, the new and upgraded centres will support more than 5,000 Victorian families each year - ensuring more families can get the help they need closer to home.
As stated by Minister for Health Infrastructure Melissa Horne
"The Shepparton EPC will make sure more local families have access to the parenting support they need, when they need it most, and most importantly, it is close to home."
As stated by Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn
"Every child deserves the best start in life - and this new centre will give Shepparton families the free support and expert guidance they need to help their little ones thrive."
"Parenting can be tough, so we're making sure families in the Goulburn Valley don't have to do it alone, with the care and support they need right on their doorstep."
As stated by Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Shane Sali
"The Shepparton Early Parenting Centre will empower new parents and carers in Greater Shepparton with local, tailored support during the most important years of their child's lives."
"The centre invests in the future of our community, ensuring every child has the best possible start in life and every parent has access to the care they need."
