Proposed temporary changes to early years services
Update 17 September 2026
Decision on proposed temporary changes to early years services
Last night our Council decided to proceed with its plan for Coventry Children's Centre to be temporarily used as a decanting site from 2027 while redevelopment works are undertaken at the Clarendon Children’s Centre and Lilian Cannam Kindergarten.
This follows a month-long deferral to further explore if any government grants or other assistance was available, allow site inspections of two other alternative property options and to undertake a survey of families’ childcare needs. Despite these additional efforts, Coventry remained the most financially responsible option that provided the highest level of delivery confidence.
We did not make this decision lightly and thank everyone who provided feedback. While some families will experience disruptions, this temporary transition will ultimately result in the delivery of six upgraded, fit-for-purpose early childhood facilities for current and future generations under our significant $37 million partnership with the Victorian Government.
We do understand this decision will be disappointing for Coventry families who did not support this outcome and have added extra support to what was proposed to help ease the transition.
A 15 per cent discount for families currently attending Coventry Children’s Centre, who transition to another Council-owned and operated childcare facility, was originally offered for 2027. This will now also apply to families with siblings not yet attending Coventry and be available in both 2028 and 2027.
Additional support will also be available for families currently attending Coventry Children’s Centre, and those with siblings not yet attending Coventry, who choose to transition to a private or not-for-profit childcare service in Port Phillip rated as meeting or exceeding the national quality standards. A subsidy to cover any fee increase will now apply in 2028 as well as 2027, subject to these services meeting regulatory requirements.
Council will regularly make opportunities to hear concerns identified by parents and staff during the transition, with processes in place to ensure both issues and outcomes are communicated to families.
A dedicated Child Care Transition Officer is already available to work directly with families.
Our Council remains committed to providing and supporting high-quality childcare. A report has been requested for late 2027 to outline the plans for the reopening of Coventry Children’s Centre in 2029, including initiatives to attract enrolments and staff.
Advice will also be sought about developing a broader early learning and childcare strategy to be considered during the 2026/27 budget process.
In partnership with the Victorian Government, we’re investing in upgraded early years facilities across the municipality.
These improvements will provide modern, high-quality environments for children, families and educators, helping to meet community needs now and into the future.
The program includes upgrades to several childcare centres and kindergartens to create improved learning environments, increase capacity in some locations and ensure facilities remain fit for purpose for years to come.
Why are temporary changes being considered?
Childcare and kindergarten services cannot operate from active construction sites.
To allow these important upgrades to proceed, some services will need to temporarily relocate while redevelopment works are underway. In some cases, Council is also considering temporary changes to service arrangements to make the best use of available facilities during the redevelopment period.
These proposals aim to:
- support the delivery of facility upgrades
- maintain access to services during construction
- minimise disruption where possible
- make effective use of available facilities
- support the long-term sustainability of childcare services.
Commitment to quality early years services
All Council-operated early years facilities are rated Exceeding the National Quality Standard.
We’re committed to delivering high-quality services and are continuing work to strengthen and improve our early years network, including:
- planning for future community demand
- improving enrolment and waitlist processes
- strengthening workforce capability and stability
- increasing community awareness of services
- enhancing quality, compliance and operational oversight.
Proposed service arrangements in 2027 and 2028
As part of the planning for our facility upgrades, Council is considering several temporary service arrangements that would support the relocation of services while redevelopment works are undertaken.
No decisions have been made regarding the long-term future of any services as part of these proposals. Any future decisions beyond the redevelopment period would be subject to separate consideration by Council.
Families, staff and service users who may be directly affected will be contacted directly and provided with relevant information and support.
Have a question or feedback?
We understand families and service users may have questions about the proposed changes. We’re committed to keeping families, staff and the community informed as planning progresses.
If you would like to provide feedback, ask for more information or have specific questions about your family's circumstances, please contact:
Early Learning Projects Team: earlylearningprojects@portphillip.vic.gov.au
Feedback received will be considered before Council makes a final decision.
Information session materials
Council held an information session for families from Coventry and North St Kilda Children’s Centres on Tuesday 11 August 2026. Information sent to families in advance, and the presentation delivered at the session, are available below.
Frequently asked questions
These changes are proposed only. Council will make a final decision at its meeting on 19 August. Families and services will be advised of the decision on 20 August 2026.