Funding urgently needed to sustain essential services at WA’s sole standalone ACC childcare centre

Western Australia’s only stand-alone Aboriginal community-controlled childcare centre is seeking additional funding to ensure it can continue its work. The Broome-based Jalygurr Guwan Childcare Centre has supported Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal families in the West Kimberley for more than 30 years, described by chairperson Jai Newton as an “irreplaceable community treasure.” Jalygurr Guwan provides long day care, out-of-school-hours care, and mobile playgroups for babies and children up to the age of eight. Its curriculum celebrates Aboriginal education, including learning Yawuru language, while welcoming children and staff from all cultural backgrounds. The centre is intertwined with Broome’s community history. Jalygurr-Guwan was originally established by a group of Aboriginal mothers who attended the Mirdi Marlu (Little Kangaroos) playgroup in Broome. During this period more Aboriginal women were entering the workforce in Broome and the playgroup mothers talked about the need for an Aboriginal day care service for their children. In September 1989 Jalygurr Guwan opened its doors to begin operating as a childcare service. Despite operating for over 30 years, the centre’s building has never been refurbished. Board member Buna-Tuaty Poelin, who attended Jalygurr Guwan as a child and later enrolled her own children, says funding is urgently needed to upgrade the facilities. “Our building has stood the test of time, but it’s time for some much-needed care,” Ms. Poelina shared. “We’re committed to keeping fees down so that families can access affordable, culturally supportive childcare. “But we need additional funding to upgrade our facilities so that we can maintain affordability and uphold our ethos.” The centre has played a significant role in early education, supporting generations of Broome children and families, including Aboriginal children who were placed in care by the WA Department of Communities. “It’s critical for Aboriginal children placed with non-Aboriginal families to have a culturally safe space where they are able to be nurtured and maintain their cultural identity,” Ms Poelina said. General manager Tyena Holzhauser highlighted the centre’s transformative role in the lives of vulnerable children. “We’ve seen kids arrive withdrawn and uncommunicative, but over time, they learn to feel safe, loved, and confident.” The WA Government has made significant investments in crime prevention and youth justice initiatives in the Kimberley, including $40.4 million allocated in the 2022-2023 State Budget. Though Ms. Poelina believes that focusing on early childhood development is just as critical. “Investing in our youngest children is key to breaking cycles of disadvantage,” she said. “At Jalygurr Guwan, we set children up for success no matter their background.” Helping them to develop social-emotional skills, build confidence and engage with an early learning curriculum ensures they don’t fall behind and are ready for school.” Board members have written to Education Minister Sabine Winton, requesting support to secure Jalygurr Guwan’s future. While awaiting a response, Mr Newton emphasised the centre’s essential role in the community. “If Jalygurr Guwan were to close, the cost of trying to replicate what we’ve built over 30 years would be astronomical — and the result could never match the unique impact we’ve had,” he said.