"I am delighted to visit Grampians Early Parenting Centre in Ballarat, which is committed to providing high-quality early childhood care,” said Premier Jacinta Allan.  

“By investing in our youngest Victorians, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future for our entire community. I thank all the dedicated staff who make this centre a nurturing place." 

Grampians Early Parenting Centre opened in May last year to provide specialist care closer to home for parents needing support with sleep and settling, child behaviour, and parent and child health and wellbeing.  

CEO Dale Fraser said: "Our centre is all about working together with families and partners to make sure everyone’s voice is heard and valued. This way we can provide care that truly meets the needs and preferences of the people we serve, now and into the future." 

On Friday, Premier Jacinta Allan, also launched the Plan for Victoria, a long-term plan that aims to create more homes, jobs, and vibrant communities across the state. The 30-year blueprint outlines how Victoria will support a growing population while preserving and enhancing the qualities in our living, working, and recreational spaces. As part of this plan, 200,000 additional homes will be built within the growth boundaries of Ballarat, Bendigo, and Geelong over the next three decades. 

Premier Jacinta Allan emphasised, “We need to do everything to give our kids a shot at living, working and raising a family locally.” 

The City of Ballarat forecasts its population will exceed 160,000 by 2040, leading to a significant increase in demand for Early Years facilities in the city’s growth areas over the next two decades.  

"Since our opening in May 2024, we've had the privilege of supporting over 300 families in the Grampians region,” said Jade Odgers, Site Director of Nursing, Early Parenting Centre. “Our support extends beyond the exceptional services at our centre; we also educate families about community resources and empower them to seek additional services that can enhance their parenting skills beyond our walls.  

“Our goal is to help families connect in the short term and ultimately contribute to raising well-rounded teenagers and fully functioning adults for the future of our communities." 

During their visit, Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister Sonya Kilkenny met with local Ballarat parent, Rhiannon Coulthard and her four-month-old son, Sebastian.  

Rhiannon and Sebastian participate in the Infant Massage Education Classes at the Early Parenting Centre, where a qualified infant massage educator guides parents/carers in performing infant massage. This group activity is designed to strengthen parenting skills and help parents better understand their baby’s needs. 

“The infant massage group was a wonderful experience. Not only did I learn how to massage my baby, but the social connections with the other mums are amazing,” said Rhiannon.  

Vikki Doddamani, Early Parenting Centre’s Nurse Unit Manager, said the centre is constantly looking at ways to support young families in the region.  

“When families walk through our doors, they can feel comforted and supported to receive help with their parenting challenges and goals” she said. 

“This year, we have grown our services to include the Infant Massage Education Classes, and we are always looking at how we can support our families in the Grampians region and keep them closer to home.”