Crèche opens at parliament of Victoria

For the first time in its 168-year history, Victoria's Parliament House has a dedicated childcare space within the historic building. A new crèche was opened for the year's first sitting of parliament to provide vital support for MPs who are parents, offering them childcare during sitting weeks. A qualified childcare educator will be on hand to care for children while their parents fulfill their parliamentary duties, ensuring that MPs can participate in debates and votes without sacrificing their responsibilities. Both the crèche and childcare educator are funded entirely by the MPs involved, ensuring no cost to taxpayers. Nationals’ Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland played a key role in securing the facility and said the initiative was a significant step forward for parents in Parliament. “This is a real privilege, as so many of us know how difficult it is to return to work without appropriate childcare,” Ms Cleeland said. “We shouldn’t have to choose between serving as MPs and being mothers. The services are particularly useful for regional MPs who spend lengthy time away from families. “This crèche provides much-needed support, allowing us to be present both for our families and the communities we represent. “Having initiatives like on-site childcare will empower more women to step forward for public service, knowing they can balance family responsibilities with leadership.” Ms Cleeland said she was fortunate to have such support, but said a top priority for her was improving childcare access across regional Victoria, with many small towns having no childcare facilities, something she said was 'unacceptable'. “So many regional families are struggling with a childcare crisis,” she said. “The Benalla district and Seymour have been crying out for more facilities, while towns like Nagambie and Broadford have multi-year waitlists that urgently need to be addressed. “No parent should have to choose between earning a living and caring for their children."

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