Nationals Leader David Littleproud said The Nationals are prioritising much-needed childcare and aged care in the Moree Plains Shire, with major funding announcements across the region.
Mr Littleproud said he was proud to announce a future Nationals Government will invest $700,000 towards the Gwydir Childcare Expansion, to accommodate up to 40 extra babies and toddlers.
“Labor has failed to give regional Australia and areas such as Moree more childcare accessibility as well as affordability,” Mr Littleproud said.
“A future Nationals Government will help deliver a new extension to the building at Gwydir Childcare.
“This funding will allow the centre to expand its capacity and give Moree parents the extra childcare places they need.”
Nationals’ candidate for Parkes, Jamie Chaffey, said as the former Mayor of Gunnedah Shire and Chair of the NSW Country Mayors Association, he has seen first-hand the impact of Labor’s lack of funding for childcare infrastructure.
“There is a shortage of childcare places in Moree Plains Shire, making it difficult for parents to find suitable placements for their young children,” Mr Chaffey said.
“I am proud to be part of a team that supports our local parents and is dedicated to giving Moree Plains Shire more childcare opportunities with this funding announcement.”
A future Nationals Government will also invest $87,321.20 towards the Mungindi Childcare completion, to install fencing and a fire system, a gazebo with privacy screens, and shade cover for the under 2-year-old playground area.
“Childcare is needed in Mungindi to provide early childhood education and give our children the best opportunity to develop,” Mr Chaffey said.
“By helping to provide childcare for those from 0-5 years, we will unlock opportunities and possibilities for those who need it most.”
Moree Plains Shire Mayor Cr Susannah Pearse said council is very grateful for the investment in childcare.
“This injection of funds will allow us to cater for up to 40 additional 0-3 year-olds at Gwydir Daycare and complete outdoor works at Mungindi,” Cr Pearse said.
“Access to childcare remains a significant limiting factor for local women returning to the workforce and for skilled workers looking to move our Shire. Investment in childcare is an investment in our Shire’s future.”
Mungindi Age Care Centre Committee will also receive $119,368 under a future Nationals Government.
