A future Wilson Liberal and Nationals Government will contribute $1.575 million towards establishing the new Chinese Early Learning Centre at the Chinese Association of Victoria (CAV) in Bayswater.

CAV has been at the heart of the Chinese community in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs for almost 40 years. Its Chinese language school has grown from 180 students to 550 students over the past five years, providing Chinese language education from primary school through to VCE.

Once established, the new centre will give young children the opportunity to develop Chinese language skills from an early age, while also welcoming families from different backgrounds who are interested in Chinese language and culture.

The Centre will include an outdoor play area, four 70m² classrooms, parking and internal roads. The project will allow CAV to expand its education offering into the preschool years and upgrade its existing facilities.

Leader of the Opposition, Jess Wilson, said: “CAV is an important part of the community in Melbourne’s east.

“This project will help more children access early learning while giving them the opportunity to develop Chinese language skills from a young age”.

Shadow Minister for Multicultural and Multifaith Affairs, Evan Mulholland, said: “CAV has played an important role in preserving and sharing Chinese heritage in Victoria for decades.

“This investment will help extend that work into the early learning years and make these opportunities available to more families, including those from different backgrounds who share an interest in Chinese language and culture.”

Victorian Liberal candidate for Bayswater, David Kitchen, said: “CAV is an important part of our local community, and this project will help meet growing demand for early learning and Chinese language education.

“I’m pleased to support a centre that will bring local families together and welcome people from all backgrounds who want to learn about Chinese culture.”

Shadow Minister for Industry and Member for the North Eastern Region, Richard Welch, said: “Victoria’s Chinese community has contributed enormously to our state’s social and economic life. Supporting organisations like CAV helps recognise that contribution and the important role they play in our community.”