Blueprint unveiled for future childcare needs

A COMPREHENSIVE report into early childcare demand, opportunities and future investment priorities in the Limestone Coast region was released this month.

The Limestone Coast Early Childhood Education and Care Report was compiled by Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast (RDALC) with funding from the Office for Early Childhood Development.

The report identifies significant gaps between existing childcare provision and demand, with communities including Robe, Millicent, Naracoorte and Keith experiencing clear and sustained need for additional childcare places.

The findings also highlight the importance of supporting childcare solutions in smaller regional communities such as Beachport, Glencoe and Padthaway, where access to childcare can play a critical role in attracting families, supporting local businesses and enabling future growth.

RDALC Chair Robyn Verrall said the report provides a clear foundation for future investment and advocacy across the Limestone Coast.

“The message from this report is clear. Childcare is critical to the future of our region. It enables parents to participate in the workforce, helps businesses attract and retain staff, and supports vibrant and sustainable communities. The findings provide the evidence, direction and practical tools needed to support future investment across the Limestone Coast.”

Recent investment in childcare infrastructure in Kingston SE and Bordertown demonstrates the positive progress already being made across the region. The report helps identify opportunities to strengthen childcare access in other communities where demand remains high.

More than a childcare report, it represents a collective voice for the Limestone Coast, reflecting the experiences of people and communities across the region.

The report combines regional data and analysis with extensive engagement undertaken by RDALC across the Limestone Coast. Through direct consultation with early learning centres, kindergartens, councils, businesses, families and community partners, the project captured local experiences and on-the-ground insights to build a comprehensive picture of childcare needs, challenges and future opportunities.

Importantly, the report also includes contributions from children across the Limestone Coast, whose drawings and creative expressions reflect the early years themes of belonging, being and becoming.

Their contributions provide a valuable reminder that children are at the centre of decisions about early childhood education and care.

Alongside the report, a practical regional toolkit has been developed to help councils, service providers and communities assess local needs, explore solutions and strengthen future funding and investment proposals.

Together, the report and toolkit provide a foundation for future collaboration, investment and advocacy, helping ensure children and families across the Limestone Coast have access to quality early childhood education and care, regardless of where they live.

The Limestone Coast Early Childhood Education and Care Report was officially launched at Parker Estate.