Families in Australia’s largest masterplanned community now have greater access to early childhood education and care, with Joy Early Learning officially opening in the Aura suburb of Banya this month.
The purpose-built centre caters for up to 142 children, from eight weeks through to six years of age, across nursery, toddler, junior kindy, pre-kindy, and kindergarten programs.
Stockland Development Director Josh Sondergeld said the opening of Joy Early Learning expands Aura’s network of education and childcare services, giving local families greater access to quality learning opportunities close to home.
“With more families choosing Aura as the place to raise children, it’s important that we continue to deliver the services and facilities that support every stage of life,” Mr Sondergeld said.
“The early years play a critical role in a child’s development, and we’re pleased to welcome a provider that shares our commitment to creating a positive learning environment where children can thrive and families feel supported.”
“Joy Early Learning is the latest addition to Aura’s growing education offering. From early learning through to primary and secondary education, we’re focused on providing access to quality education as the community grows. We already have an additional early learning centre under construction which will open next year, as well as future plans for a university and TAFE.”
The new centre features creative play areas, sensory-friendly retreats, and three outdoor playgrounds with more than 950 plants. An onsite chef also prepares fresh, locally sourced meals each day.
The opening has created approximately 40 local jobs, along with additional opportunities for local cleaning, gardening and maintenance businesses.
Joy Early Learning General Manager Amanda Fraser said the team was excited to become part of the Aura community and support local families during their children’s formative years.
“Aura’s strong sense of community and family-focused lifestyle made it a natural fit for Joy Early Learning,” Ms Fraser said.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the warm welcome from local families, and it’s been wonderful to see children walking and scootering to the centre each morning. That sense of belonging from the very first day is exactly what we hoped to create.
“At Joy, strong relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We’ve already begun building meaningful connections with local schools and sporting groups, and we’re looking forward to becoming an active part of the wider community alongside the children and families we support.”
The Aura centre is Joy’s first location on the Sunshine Coast, with a second centre planned for Moffat Beach later in 2026.
The centre is also eligible for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) and the Queensland Government’s Free Kindy program, helping make early learning more accessible for local families.
Stockland has commenced construction on an additional early learning centre and will welcome Aspire Early Education to the Aura community in early 2027.
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