Last year marked a landmark chapter in early childhood education in Victoria, with the launch of Early Learning Victoria.
The Victorian Government has committed to establishing 50 government owned and operated early learning centres by 2032. These centres are part of the Best Start, Best Life(opens in a new window) reforms designed to improve access to early education and care.
At the beginning of 2025, the first 4 centres opened. A further 14 opened in January 2026.
Among the first 4 of these centres was Early Learning Victoria Nyernilang Lar in Eaglehawk North. Nyernilang Lar means ‘learning place’ in the language of the Dja Dja Wurrung people. The name was chosen in partnership with Traditional Owners.
A year of growth, belonging and quality teaching
Nyernilang Lar has 5 learning rooms and vibrant outdoor areas. The spaces support children’s growth, curiosity, and agency. Educators have brought a high-quality, play-based curriculum to life for all age groups. This has led to joyful learning every day.
Inaugural centre director Kylie Banks-Broome said being part of one of the first sites was ‘incredibly special.’
‘The last 12 months was a journey of growth in every sense,’ Kylie said.
‘We are learning alongside the children, building and refining our practices, building strong relationships.’
The centre combines long day care with kindergarten programs, with qualified early childhood teachers in each kindergarten-age room.
‘Nyernilang Lar’s pedagogical approach supports children’s development,’ Kylie said.
‘[It does this] by recognising them as capable, confident and engaged learners whose choice, consent and control is honoured.’
Championing safety, inclusion and respect
The team at Nyernilang Lar has worked hard to create a positive culture where every child feels seen, heard, supported and valued.
‘Children provide feedback on everything from menus to daily routines, helping us adopt practices that support their learning and wellbeing,’ Kylie said.
‘Nurturing relationships let children be themselves and feel safe.’
Driving change through professional growth
The workforce at Early Learning Victoria are creating inclusive environments where children thrive. Employees receive wages and benefits in line with industry benchmarks and Victorian public sector standards.
Educators at Nyernilang Lar have helped to define what modern and inclusive early childhood practice looks like in action.
‘Working at Early Learning Victoria is an exciting opportunity to be part of a movement shaping the future of early childhood education,’ Kylie said.
‘The focus on career progression and professional growth supports us in driving change.’
Looking ahead
Early Learning Victoria chief executive officer Darren Youngs said its future is built on people.
‘When educators feel valued, supported and secure in their work, they can do what they do best — build strong, nurturing relationships with children and families,’ he said.
‘As we continue to grow Early Learning Victoria, we are creating meaningful career pathways and great places to work, because we know that when our workforce thrives, children thrive too.’
Find out more
If you have any questions about the centres, contact Early Learning Victoria:
For more information visit the Early Learning Victoria(opens in a new window) website.
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