Council is committed to supporting young people to live, learn, play and connect locally. Bass Coast Shire is home to 41,847 people, which is expected to increase to 47,408 by 2036. This includes a 19% growth in families with dependent children, and 5% in the 0-4 age group.

This growth is placing a large demand on existing early years services.

We know access to quality early years education is a critical foundation for children’s emotional and social development. Early years services in Bass Coast are crucial for the health and wellbeing of families by promoting positive child health development from birth to five years of age. Increased funding is required to ensure that every child in Bass Coast receives fair and equitable access to these services.