Families in Western Victoria will find a wide choice of childcare and early learning options, from nurturing nursery care for babies as young as six weeks through to funded three and four year old kindergarten and school readiness programs. Centres typically offer long day care with flexible session times, extended opening hours, and all-inclusive options where nappies, wipes and sunscreen are provided. Many services blend indoor and outdoor learning with play-based, inquiry or Reggio Emilia inspired programs that follow the Early Years Learning Framework and meet National Quality Standards. You will also find extras like chef prepared, allergy aware meals, yoga and sports, bush or nature play, pets in the classroom, and sustainability projects such as veggie gardens, composting and worm farms.
Support for families is a strong focus across the region. Many providers use family communication apps to share daily photos and learning updates, offer key educator relationships, orientation sessions, and help with Child Care Subsidy. Some services include integrated maternal child health, occasional care, before and after school care, and vacation care, as well as allied health support for kindergarten children. Inclusive practices are common, with multicultural programs, AUSLAN in classrooms, Indigenous perspectives, and small group or boutique settings that tailor learning to each child. Whether you are looking for a homely community centre, a purpose built campus with modern resources, or a friendly playgroup, WesternVIC brings together quality options that help children grow in confidence, curiosity and wellbeing.
Childcare in Greater Bendigo
Families in Greater Bendigo can access nurturing long day care and kindergarten for babies to preschoolers, with play-based learning, extended hours, healthy meals, nature-rich spaces, inclusive support and strong family communication.
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About Childcare
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages do local childcare centres care for, and what programs are usually offered?
Local childcare centres in Western Victoria typically care for children from six weeks through to five or six years, offering nursery, toddler and preschool rooms, as well as funded 3 and 4 year old kindergarten and school readiness programs. Many centres provide play-based learning aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework and National Quality Standards, with extras like incursions, excursions, bush kinder, and sustainability projects.
What are typical operating hours and how do fees work with the Child Care Subsidy?
Typical operating hours in Western Victoria are weekdays from around 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, with flexible session options such as all-day, 10-hour or 9-hour blocks to help manage out-of-pocket costs. Fees are set by each service, and the Australian Government Child Care Subsidy can reduce costs based on your family income, activity test and service type. Centres can guide you through CCS eligibility and application steps.
Are meals, nappies and other essentials provided at most centres?
Meals, nappies and other essentials are commonly provided at many centres, with chef-prepared or on-site cooked meals that cater for allergies and cultural preferences. You will often find nappies, wipes and sunscreen included, while some centres also provide bedding and spare clothing. Always check the inclusions list and weekly menu when you tour.
How do centres keep parents informed about a child's day and progress?
Centres keep parents informed about a child's day and progress through daily updates, learning stories and photos using family communication apps such as Storypark, Xplor or EarlyWorks. Many services also offer key educator relationships, weekly learning journeys, termly goals, and regular catch ups to discuss your child's development.
What should I look for during a tour, and how do I enrol or join a waitlist?
During a tour you should look for warm, responsive educators, clean and safe environments, engaging indoor and outdoor spaces, nutritious menus, clear routines, and a program aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework. To enrol or join a waitlist, contact the centre for a tour, confirm availability, and provide enrolment documents such as immunisation history, birth certificate and emergency contacts. You can shortlist providers and enquire directly through WesternVIC.
How can WesternVIC help me compare childcare options near me?
WesternVIC can help you compare childcare options near you by listing local centres across Western Victoria with details on programs, hours, inclusions and communication methods, so you can quickly shortlist, enquire and book tours.