Origin Energy CEO Frank Calabria, NSW Member for Murray Dalton and Edward River Council Mayor Ashley Hall.
Deniliquin could be receiving a new childcare centre development in coming years, thanks to a $1 million funding promise announced this week.
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The pledge from Origin Energy is part of the company’s broader commitment to community investment linked to its Yanco Delta Wind Farm project.
A total of $5 million has been promised to Edward River Council as part of the agreement.
Origin has indicated, however, that the pledge is contingent on the remainder of the project’s capital costs being secured through government and industry partners.
If the funding is made available, the new centre will be in addition to a new preschool promised for Deniliquin, funded by the NSW Government.
The preschool is to be built on the grounds of Deniliquin South School, but is not expected to be delivered until 2027.
The Edward River Council region currently faces a significant childcare shortfall, with 738 children under four years old but only 238 childcare spots available, leaving more than 300 children waitlisted.
Origin’s funding pledge was announced at a Griffith meeting on Wednesday, where NSW Member for Murray Helen Dalton, Edward River Council Mayor Ashley Hall and ERC CEO Jack Bond met with Origin Energy chair Scott Perkins and CEO Frank Calabria.
“Put simply, people won't move here, or choose to work here, if their children can't access proper, reliable child care,” Ms Dalton said.
“So, the creation of more childcare in Deni isn't just about improving the lives of our children - it's about improving the lives of every single one of us.
“On behalf of the people of Murray, I would like to thank Origin Energy for pledging a staggering $1 million towards the new child care facility in Deni. This is exactly the kind of community support we need.”
Cr Hall said the initiative would be of significant benefit for local families.
Origin Energy CEO Frank Calabria, NSW Member for Murray Dalton and Edward River Council Mayor Ashley Hall.
“This contribution is more than financial support – it's an investment in the future of our families, our workforce, and our local economy,” he said.
“The delivery of additional childcare in Deniliquin will ease the significant pressure on families, create new local jobs, and unlock workforce participation across key industries like health, education, aged care, agriculture, and small business.”
Mr Calabria emphasised the company's regional commitment.
“We're proud to support the local community around our Yanco Delta Wind Farm, making sure the benefits of this project are shared with the people who live here,” he said.
“Over the life of the project, Origin will contribute $31 million to help fund local projects, support Indigenous partnerships, and back regional development.
“We've heard how important childcare places are to families in Deniliquin, and we are pleased to be providing $1 million towards a new early education centre.”
ERC and Ms Dalton are continuing efforts to secure additional investment needed for the childcare facility.
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