Help shape the future of early childhood education and care in Cohuna

Published on 27 January 2026

Families who currently access Gannawarra Shire Council-managed early childhood education and childcare services in Cohuna, as well as those who may access these services in the future, are encouraged to help Council plan how these services will look from next year.

With construction of the State Government-managed Early Learning Victoria Centre at Cohuna Consolidated School occurring this year in readiness for its opening in 2027, Council would like to work with families to understand preferences and future demand so services can be planned in a way that best meets community needs.

“Council is pleased to have worked with residents to advocate for improved current and future early childhood development and child care needs for Cohuna and district families, which the new Early Learning Centre will provide,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

“As this centre will feature its own kindergarten rooms that will cater for three-year-old kindergarten and Pre-Prep sessions, as well as Long Day Care programs, now is an opportune time to assess current services and the future needs of families.”

Families currently accessing kindergarten, long day care or Family Day Care programs, as well as those with children aged 0-5 years who will access three-year-old kindergarten or Pre-Prep from 2027 onwards are encouraged to complete a survey outlining their preferences for the future, which is available online at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/yoursay

“All responses received before 5pm Friday, 13 February will assist Council in understanding where families are most likely to enrol their children for kindergarten, as well as plan services that are sustainable and responsive to community needs,” Mr Rollinson said.

“It is important to note that decisions have not been made about Council’s delivery of early childhood education and care programs for Cohuna and district.”

If you would like more information about the survey and engagement process, please contact Council’s Children’s Services team on (03) 5452 1357 or email children@gannawarra.vic.gov.au