Mia Davies
The Nationals candidate for Bullwinkel Mia Davies has vowed to fight for improved childcare services should she become the first Member for Bullwinkel at the federal election.
Visiting REED-Wundowie with Federal Shadow Minister for Regional Education Darren Chester and Nationals candidate for the state electorate of Central Wheatbelt Lachlan Hunter, Davies called for a better approach to childcare based on local needs.
“The REED model demonstrates how creative solutions – designed by local communities, for local communities – can deliver high quality childcare services, even in the smallest population centres,” Ms Davies said.
“But even with the established service, with 160 staff across 23 sites in Western Australia, they still need assistance to meet growing demand.
“Wundowie REED started life as Fluffy Ducklings, a small community-based centre that has grown over time.
“As their local Member I was pleased to assist in securing Royalties for Regions funding to expand their building to meet demand, and now they are facing a similar challenge again!
“As The Nationals candidate for Bullwinkel I’ll be fighting for funding to expand REED-Wundowie so the families in this growing community can continue to access affordable and quality childcare.”
Ms Davies said a combination of funding for capital infrastructure and a Government that supported innovative models like REED was required to really break some of the barriers in accessibility and affordability.
“As a member of WA Parliament, I worked with the community, early childhood educators and providers as the REED model was developed.
“I’ve always made childcare a priority and will continue to fight to improve services in the communities I represent.”
REED (Regional Early Education and Development Inc), is a non-profit organisation offering quality early childhood care, development and education in over 23 rural Western Australian communities.
REED centres are staffed and managed by people who live and work in rural communities, allowing them to tailor their childcare programs to local needs while having access to support and resources through REED’s state-wide network.
