Karingal families and their kids now have a great new space to come together thanks to the new $6.1 million Karingal People, Learning, Activities, Community, Education (PLACE) Family and Children’s Hub.
Opening the facility, Minister for Community Development Lily D’Ambrosio said the Hub would provide families and residents with a one-stop shop for services such as playgroup, childcare, family support, education and training as well as community meeting spaces.
“The Brumby Labor Government understands the important role that facilities like this can play in strengthening communities,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“The Hub is also fully accessible for people with limited mobility which means everyone can be connected and involved in community life.”
“This is why we partnered with Frankston City Council and provided $2.25 million to the creation of this community hub.
“With Karingal PLACE, a wide range of new programs are now conveniently located alongside Karingal Primary School, and community groups have space to meet and carry out activities.
“The Hub is also fully accessible for people with limited mobility which means everyone can be connected and involved in community life.”
Member for Frankston, Alistair Harkness said the Karingal PLACE Family and Children’s Hub will support local families to give local kids the best start in life.
“Being able to support local mums and dads as their children move through the key years from birth to primary school with services located in the same precinct is so important,” he said.
“It will give children and families a feeling of security and familiarity that will help build relationships and confidence.
“I’m over the moon that this Hub is now open. It’s a real boon for Karingal kids and I’m so pleased to have been able to help drive it to become a reality.
“The Hub is delivering on our Government’s commitment to high quality and accessible education and support for all children and families, as outlined in the Blueprint for Education and Early Childhood Development.”
Ms D’Ambrosio congratulated Frankston City Council on successfully managing the project and contributing $3.85 million, as well as other community groups for their involvement.
“Planning this building has been a great joint effort, and I thank everyone involved,” she said.
“This is a great example of the Victorian Government working in partnership with the community to deliver local solutions.”