Council seeks input on kindergarten infrastructure challenge

Published on 18 August 2026

The Shire is seeking community input as it finalises a review into kindergarten infrastructure – a key challenge currently facing the Peninsula.

The State Government is responsible for kindergartens across Victoria, and its 2022 Best Start, Best Life reforms significantly increased the number of free kindergarten hours available to Victorian families, creating new infrastructure demands in many communities.

Council does not deliver sessional kindergarten services, but 25 providers operate from Council-owned facilities.

Mayor Stephen Batty said that while Council strongly supports early childhood education and welcomes the intent of the reforms, a review found that most of Council’s kindergarten buildings are unable to support the increase in demand.

“Many of Council’s kindergarten buildings only have one room. They can’t provide the extra hours mandated by the State Government without adding another room or drastically cutting their future enrolments. In some cases, there isn’t the space to add on another room.”

“The review estimates that upgrading existing buildings will cost more than our entire capital works Budget for this year. It’s an investment that cannot reasonably be met by ratepayers alone,” Cr Batty said.

“While the State Government has provided some funding for kindergarten infrastructure, it’s nowhere near enough and would leave Council with a significant shortfall to cover.”

As Council works to address the challenges presented by the Best Start, Best Life reforms, it’s seeking input from the community about local experiences of Council-owned kindergarten buildings – their condition, suitability, capacity and location.

“Council is now faced with important decisions about the future of these facilities, and the role local government should play in responding to State Government reforms,” Cr Batty said.

“Any decision involving an investment of this scale has implications for ratepayers and must be carefully considered alongside Council’s many other responsibilities.”

“This is an issue facing all Peninsula community members, not just those who use kindergartens. We need to ensure ratepayer’s money is allocated fairly across all areas such as roads, sports facilities, libraries, community services and the environment.”

“Community feedback will help shape Council’s long-term response to the kindergarten reforms, including future advocacy to ensure the responsibilities created by State Government decisions are matched by suitable funding or policy.”

All members of the Mornington Peninsula community are encouraged to have their say at State Government Kindergarten Reforms.