Mount Alexander Shire Council has launched the Childcare Feasibility Study, an important step toward improving access to early childhood education and care across our community.

When the Early Years Plan 2022–2026 was developed, many parents and carers reported how hard it can be to find childcare. People shared how the lack of available places affects their daily lives – whether it’s returning to work, managing routines or simply feeling supported as a family.

We are now inviting parents and carers of children 0 to 5 years old, plus childcare service providers to complete a survey before Monday 20 April at 5pm.

Your feedback will play a key role in shaping the study’s findings and future recommendations.

Engagement activities will run throughout March and April and will include interviews, focus groups, workshops, Councillor listening posts and surveys. Drop by our pop-ups at:

• Closing Day Garden Party (Castlemaine State Festival) on Sunday 29 March from 11am to 3pm at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, and
• Race Ya Family Fun Day (Maldon Easter Fair) on Sunday 5 April from 11am to 3pm at the Bill Woodfull Reserve, Maldon.
• Solutions driven focus group discussions on Saturday 18 April from 10am - 11.30am at the Ray Bradfield Rooms, Castlemaine. Children welcome and morning tea provided.

The study is a key strategic priority in Council’s 2024/2025 Annual Plan and is also noted in the 2025–2029 Council Plan, reflecting Council’s long-term commitment to strengthening early years services.

To help respond to these challenges, Council is taking a close look at what childcare options are available now, what families need, and what could be possible in the future. The study will focus on children from birth to five years, and Council will be speaking with parents, carers, service providers, early years professionals and community groups in March and April 2026.