Charles Darwin University has been allocated funding to help expand childcare facilities in Alice Springs.
The Alice Springs Campus has been targeted for growth in student numbers by the University. Research undertaken as part of the planning for this growth pointed to a need for expansion of childcare places.
Under the 'Support for Small Businesses on Regional University Campuses Programme', the University has received $100,000 in Commonwealth funding to help expand the capacity of the Eastside Childcare Centre, situated immediately adjacent to the Alice Springs campus. It is hoped that the expansion will make tertiary education a viable option for more Alice Springs residents.
"There has been considerable concern in universities in Australia about the effects of Voluntary Student Unionism on the provision of student services. It is very pleasing to see these funds being made available as they will allow us to expand amenities on offer to CDU students and members of the community at large," said Vice-Chancellor Professor Helen Garnett.
Eastside Child Care Centre Director, Vanessa Munro, said that the funding would open doors for both institutions and that exciting times were ahead.
"We are extremely excited to be involved with CDU, and the funding will enable the centre to expand considerably providing a much needed service for Alice Springs."