The Merri Community Child Care Centre and Kindergarten Inc
The Merri Community Child Care Centre and Kindergarten Inc is a not-for-profit early childhood education provider located on Wurundjeri Land (Kulin Nation) in Merri-bek, Victoria. Established as a parent-managed organization, the center operates a 54-place long day care program serving children aged six months to five years.

Services and Programs
The center delivers inclusive education and care programs emphasizing multicultural, creative, and developmentally appropriate activities. Its curriculum integrates open-ended experiences to foster cognitive, emotional, and social growth. The facility collaborates with local families and the community to support early learning through play-based methodologies.

Governance and Mission
As a registered charity, the organization prioritizes equitable access to early childhood education. Its mission focuses on nurturing development through an inclusive community framework, valuing childhood as a distinct developmental phase. The center aligns with Victoria’s Best Start, Best Life initiatives, which aim to expand kindergarten access and improve early years infrastructure.

Expansion and Partnerships
While independently operated, the center operates within a broader local government effort to upgrade early years facilities in Merri-bek. Recent expansions in neighboring centers, such as Dunstan Reserve Child Care Centre and Doris Blackburn Preschool, reflect increased investment in kindergarten programs under state government partnerships. These initiatives aim to address growing demand and enhance service quality across the region.

Philosophy
The center emphasizes child-centered learning, cultural diversity, and community engagement. Programs are designed to promote curiosity and resilience, with a focus on individualized care tailored to each child’s developmental stage.

Note: Specific operational details, such as enrollment processes or staffing models, are not publicly documented in available sources.

[1] https://merriccc.com.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/85c4b490-38af-e811-a963-000d3ad244fd [3] https://merriccc.com.au/our-centre/ [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/85c4b490-38af-e811-a963-000d3ad244fd/documents/ac921d3c-8d55-ed11-9562-00224893b261 [5] https://conversations.merri-bek.vic.gov.au/early-years-infrastructure