A proposal for a new building, play space and basketball court has been lodged with the City of Greater Bendigo.

The development is estimated to cost more than $1 million, with hopes for completion late in 2021.

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BDAC acquired the Cohn Street site early this year with support from the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation.

Establishing an early learning centre has been part of BDAC's plans for more than 10 years.

It was considered as part of designs for the adjacent Prouses Road site, but BDAC chief executive Raylene Harradine said the current proposal offered greater opportunities.

She said the centre and play area were being designed to reflect culture and would be unique.

"From when the children come to the front door of the early learning centre, they are going to have that cultural experience," Ms Harradine said.

She envisaged opportunities for children to learn songs in language, to dance and to see culture reflected in their surroundings.

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BDAC is working with organisations such as Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation to develop the cultural components to be delivered alongside the early years curriculum.

The proposed building would be able to accommodate up to 99 children at a time.

Ms Harradine said enrolment in the early years services would be open to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children.

She believed it was important for all children to have the opportunity to be exposed to culture.

The youth centre would based in an existing building on the site, which was proposed for refurbishment.

By offering maternal and child health services through to a youth centre, Ms Harradine said BDAC would be able to engage families right throughout their journey from prenatal care.

"It's about getting back to grassroots and raising our children in an environment that is safe," she said.

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