THE re-elected Albanese Federal Government has committed $5 million to a new child care service in the Loddon.
Labor’s announcement came at 4.58pm last Friday from Mallee candidate Greg Olsen’s campaign team.
The official release had been dated April 28 but news of the pledge was not revealed when Mr Olsen faced questioning at last week’s candidates’ forum in Inglewood.
Loddon Mayor Dan Straub said the shire was unaware of the Government’s commitment but welcomed any initiatives to expand child care access for local families.
“We will certainly be writing to the Government for details on this late $5 million commitment,” Cr Straub said.
He said child care was a priority advocacy area for the council  with northern shire communities most in need.
Work has started on a State Government early learning centre co-located at Wedderburn College to open next year.
Inglewood and District Community Bank has put $250,000 on the table towards a centre in Inglewood.
Bank board deputy chair Max Higgs pushed the need for facilities in the Inglewood and Bridgewater districts at the candidates’ forum.
According to Mr Olsen’s Friday evening announcement: “A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will invest up to $5 million towards building a new child care service in Loddon.
“We’ve already made child care cheaper for more than a million Australian families.
“But we know that in some areas, families are still struggling to find a local child care place.
“That’s why we’re announcing this election commitment to build new child care centres and expand services, in areas of need – including in Mallee.
“New services will be located on school sites wherever possible, making drop off easier for families and letting children start their early education at their local school.
“Services will be operated by high-quality, not-for-profit providers to give children the best start.”
“A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will work with the Loddon community to identify an appropriate location for the new service.
“Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.”