The Member for Calwell, Maria Vamvakinou today welcomed the expansion of a national home parenting and learning program in Broadmeadows. The Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) is being expanded to 15 communities across Australia in 2011, taking the number of communities benefiting from the program to 50 nationally. “This is an important initiative that helps parents give their child the best chance of a successful start for school,” Ms Vamvakinou  said.

“HIPPY will be a great asset to Broadmeadows and will help many parents and children in the community.”

The program empowers parents and carers to be their child’s first teacher, providing education resources and home tutors to help families prepare their children for a successful start at school. HIPPY already operates in 35 locations across Australia.

The Brotherhood of St Laurence was selected to deliver the program in Broadmeadows.The program is expected to be up and running in the area by mid-2011.

“By working with the Brotherhood of St Laurence, the Australian Government is supporting families in need, and ensuring  the children in Broadmeadows get the best possible start in life,” Ms Vamvakinou said.

The Australian Government has committed $32.5 million over five years to roll out the Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters and help up to 3000 families nationwide.