Childcare centre pledges to support families

A GROVEDALE childcare centre has spoken out about proposed changes to the childcare rebate system, saying it is standing by families with young children.
The Coalition’s $40 billion childcare package, which has yet to pass the Senate, has been criticised for its tougher requirements, including families having to pass an activity test to be eligible for funding.
Modelling released earlier this month by the Australian National University suggested more families would be worse off under the changes. to support families Torquay Road Early Learning and Kinder director Stephanie Archer said families were already doing it tough and “we don’t want to see any children disadvantaged by losing access to early learning”.
“In an industry that should be focused on the provision of quality early learning and care, of good old-fashioned love, individual attention, learning and support, it is disappointing to see the shift in focus.
“We are and will always be advocates for the children in our care; they are the future of our local community.
“In fact, our resolve has been strengthened by the shift and now more than ever we are dedicated to providing every child with the best possible start in life.”
She said her centre remained focused “on providing every child with quality early learning and care in a fun and dynamic environment,” including a recent investment in landscaping its outdoor area into a purpose-built, all natural-environment for children.
Education Minister Simon Birmingham said the Coalition’s childcare package included $3 billion in extra funding.
He said the changes included abolishing the $7,500 cap on childcare for families earning $185,710 or less, and increasing the cap to $10,000 for families earning more than $185,710.