A great start in life sets our children up for lifelong success. Early childhood education and care (ECEC) isn’t just about childcare—it’s at the heart of building a strong, growing community. When families have access to quality childcare, everyone benefits: children get an early start on education, parents can work or train, local jobs are created, our economy grows stronger, and our whole community thrives.
Most Australian childcare centres are run by private companies. They tend to go where it’s easiest to make a profit—in big cities and wealthier suburbs. That leaves places like the Huon Valley behind. Here, childcare is hard to find. We only have 1 spot for every 4 children in the Huon Valley. In fact, Tasmania has the highest percentage of ‘childcare deserts’ in the country—and things haven’t improved since 2020.
How we’re making a difference
The Huon Valley Council isn’t waiting around for things to change—we’ve stepped up. Right now, we provide over 70% of local childcare places, serving hundreds of local families every week:
- Huonville (The Cottage): 115 children / 330 sessions
- Huonville: 73 children / 245 sessions
- Geeveston: 59 children / 161 sessions
- Dover: 14 children / 35 sessions
Our centres cover their own costs and even provide valuable job training.
But demand keeps growing, and our waiting lists are getting longer—186 additional children aged 0-4 are expected in the Huonville catchment by 2046.That’s why we’ve been pushing hard for funding to build a brand new, modern childcare centre in Huonville.
We’re excited to share that both the Tasmanian Liberal and Labor parties have pledged $5 million each for our new centre, on top of $5 million already secured from federal Labor. That’s $10 million raised of the $13 million needed. We’re now busy finalising the plans to get building underway as soon as possible.
Providing choice
Early support isn’t just about childcare and childcare isn’t for everyone. Child and Family Learning Centres (CFLCs), run by the Department for Education, offer extra support for families—helping children learn, stay healthy, and stay connected. As both major parties have now committed $3 million for CFLC outreach services we will support the Department to use Council buildings in our townships to deliver CFLC services close to home where they are accessible and local connections can be made.
Mayor Doyle said, “we care deeply about giving families the support they need to thrive. With funding now committed for both new childcare and family services, local families will finally have the choices and support they deserve. Stay tuned for more updates over the coming weeks.”