The van, launched in Emerald last month by Children and Early Childhood Development Minister Maxine Morand, is packed with educational toys, equipment and art supplies.

Ms Morand said the mobile play van meant families could join a playgroup anywhere, even at their local park.

With an average of four-and-a-half families moving into the region each day, the van is part of Cardinia

Council's Best Start Partnership, designed to support and engage families who are vulnerable, disadvantaged or isolated.

Council spokesman Paul Dunlop said the brightly-coloured van would be a great drawcard to build on existing community groups and support play and parent groups.

He said it meant playgroups could be located anywhere in Cardinia Shire, including parks, sporting venues and halls where equipment was unavailable.

Ms Morand said the van would help children to learn while having fun.