Horsham Rural City Council has entered into an agreement with One Tree Community Services, paving the way for 91 new long day care places to be available in Horsham later this year.
The development is part of the Council's plan to lessen the severe childcare shortage in the Wimmera region.
"One Tree Community Services has a rich history of providing quality early years services. Their commitment to community and dedication to nurturing young minds aligns with our vision for the children of Horsham," Chief Executive Sunil Bhalla said.
One Tree, which has been operating in Victoria since 2016, has signed a lease to use rooms at the Kalkee Road Children's and Community Hub for long day care.
"With three rooms at the Hub now vacant, we are pleased that One Tree is stepping in to provide much-needed long day care at the Hub," Mr Bhalla added.
"This is not just about providing care. It's about creating a nurturing environment where our children can grow, learn, and thrive. We are confident that One Tree Community Services will bring this vision to life."
One Tree will provide the service independently from Council, including managing enrolments and staffing.
Despite the new arrangement, maternal and child health services and supported playgroup will continue to operate from the Hub alongside the long day care.
"The Kalkee Road Hub remains a cornerstone of our community, providing essential early years and immunisation services. We are excited about this new chapter and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our families," Mr Bhalla said.
Quotes attributable to One Tree Executive Director Coral Callan
"One Tree is delighted to partner with Horsham Rural City Council to provide much needed children's services."
"We understand how important these services are in rural communities. Quality early education and care not only supports children's development, but also helps to build a stronger community, enabling parents to re-enter the workforce.
"We are excited to start working with the Council and local community to transform challenges into possibilities."
