The kindergarten last operated in 2021, when enrolments fell from eight children at the start of the year to four by the end.
Greater Shepparton City Council voted unanimously to end the service at the October council meeting, citing sustained low demand and a lack of children to support a viable program in the foreseeable future.
Council reviewed the service annually and explored whether a private provider could take over, but an external provider deemed the existing site unviable due to facility constraints and sustainability concerns.
The kindergarten's service approval also ceased in 2024, meaning reopening would require a new application and regulatory approval.
The decision from council left the door open for a kindergarten service to return if a changing population created demand in the future.
“We need to remain responsive to the community’s needs,” Cr Fern Summer said.
Council’s report found Dookie had a limited cohort of kindergarten-aged children, with the 2021 Census recording nine children aged under five among the town's 333 residents.
City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Geoff Akers said the decision followed careful consideration of community feedback, enrolment figures and the service’s long-term viability.
“Council recognises the importance of local kindergarten services and understands this decision will be disappointing for some members of the Dookie community,” Cr Akers said.
Council said it would continue to monitor population growth and community needs, with future kindergarten provision to be reconsidered if demand changed.
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