Have your say on the new Municipal Early Years Plan

City of Ballarat is seeking community feedback on a new plan that helps make our city a better place for our younger residents now and into the future.  

The Municipal Early Years Plan (MEYP) shows City of Ballarat’s commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of children aged 0-8 in our region.  

The plan outlines innovative strategies to reduce inequity and vulnerability, as well as improve long-term social and educational outcomes for children and families.  

“Now, we need your feedback on the plan to make sure we are really hitting the mark with the services, programs, and projects we are planning for children in Ballarat,” City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Daniel Moloney said. 

Aligned with Council Plan, Municipal Health and Wellbeing Plan, and Community Vision, the MEYP has been created with consideration of the key messages from 2020 and 2021 children’s consultations. 

City of Ballarat is also a signatory to the Victorian Child Friendly Cities and Communities Charter, and we have a demonstrated strong commitment to listening to children, which is reflected in this plan.  

Cr Moloney said this new MEYP is a testament to Council’s commitment to providing a community that protects and cares for its youngest residents.  

“We are looking forward to hearing from the community about this plan because we really want to make sure we are doing everything we can to make sure Ballarat is a great place for kids,” he said.  

“Our growing city really needs our residents’ input into plans like these to make sure the right services, facilities, and programs are being provided for children and families into the future that are inclusive of the needs of all our community. 

“Our community understands best what they need, and we want to know what they want so we can effectively work to plan, advocate, and achieve it. 

“Children and families are such an important part of our city, and they deserve to have their voices heard and ideas listened to.” 

The City of Ballarat is seeking feedback on the plan’s goals, including making sure children feel loved and safe, having children’s materials basics needs met, being healthy and learning and fostering a positive sense of culture and identity for children.  

To provide feedback on the new City of Ballarat Municipal Early Years Plan, visit the mySay consultation hub until 1 May.