The Derby community’s long-held vision for a local early years hub is moving ahead, with funding secured to build a new Early Learning and Family Centre shaped by families, Elders and local organisations.
The project marks the first site to progress through IDAC’s co-investment approach with the Commonwealth, designed to make it easier for communities experiencing persistent disadvantage to access coordinated government and philanthropic backing.
Derby has some of the highest levels of developmental vulnerability in Western Australia, and local families have consistently called for a culturally grounded place where young children can learn, play and feel safe.
The new centre, co-designed in partnership with the Ngunga Group Women’s Aboriginal Corporation, will bring childcare, playgroups, after-school care, family support and children’s services together in one place. It is being created around what Derby, Mowanjum and Pandanus Park families say they want for their children.
“Quality early learning delivered in partnership with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations builds strong connections, confidence and belonging for children through the early years and beyond,” said Federal Early Childhood Minister Senator Dr Jess Walsh.
Minderoo Foundation said it has been proud to work alongside Derby families and local leaders over several years through its Early Years Partnership with the WA state government.
“This Centre has been driven by the vision, leadership and determination of Ngunga Group Women’s Aboriginal Corporation, and represents a shining example of what’s possible when communities lead solutions for their children and families”, Nicola Forest AO said.
The Investment Dialogue for Australia’s Children (IDAC) is supporting the project by helping bring investors and policy makers together to build the integrated hub the community wants.
“This is a community-led project through and through. It reflects how local priorities can be realised when collaboration and aligned investment create the conditions for delivery,” Simon Factor, Executive Convenor of IDAC said.
“This marks the first site under the historic $100 million IDAC co-investment and helps pave the way for a more integrated approach to early childhood infrastructure investment beyond this project,” Simon said.
The Derby announcement signals the beginning of a broader pipeline of early years co-investment sites and complementary projects to support early childhood development, with additional locations expected to be shortlisted and announced in 2026.
Read the media release: Delivering a new early learning and family centre in Derby
Find out more about Ngunga Group Women’s Aboriginal Corporation
