Dorset Child and Family Learning Centre concept plan released

The draft concept plan for the new Dorset Child and Family Learning Centre (CFLC) at Scottsdale has been released for public consultation.

Developed by local firm JAWS Architects, the concept plan incorporates feedback from the Local Enabling Group and broader community consultation undertaken earlier this year.

Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said the new centre will be built on the Scottsdale Primary School site and will deliver a modern, accessible facility tailored to the needs of local families.

“The Dorset CFLC will offer a range of education, health, family support and outreach services, providing wrap-around support for families in their local community,” Minister Palmer said.

“Like all our CFLCs around Tasmania, the Dorset centre has been community-led from the beginning, with service partners, educators and community members involved in its development and design.”

The centre will include a kitchen area, purpose-built early years indoor and outdoor play spaces, and rooms for training and consultation.

Space will also be set aside on the site to allow for future childcare services if needed.

Community consultation on the concept plan is open until 31 January 2026, with construction scheduled to begin in the second half of next year.

The new centre is one of three being delivered in regional communities across Tasmania, alongside Smithton and Longford, supported by $24 million investment.

“Our Government is delivering for Tasmanian families by investing in the facilities they need, closer to home,” Minister Palmer said.

Early stakeholder engagement is also underway for the new Smithton and Longford CFLCs, with broader community consultation for these projects to commence in 2026.

To view the draft concept plan for the Dorset CFLC and provide feedback, visit the Department for Education, Children and Young People website.