Greater Shepparton City Council has announced it will be closing its Family Day Care service, with the council transitioning out of its provision starting from September 30.
This decision comes as the number of contracted educators has declined over the years, making it increasingly challenging to sustain the necessary support team and infrastructure in compliance with regulations.
Family Day Care is an essential home-based education and care service offered to children from birth to the end of primary school.
Under this program, children receive care and education within the nurturing environment of a qualified Family Day Care educator’s home.
Despite various recruitment campaigns aimed at attracting new educators, the number of educators contracted by the council has significantly dwindled in recent years.
This decline has reached a point where it is no longer feasible for the council to maintain the necessary support and infrastructure required by the National Education and Care Services Law and associated regulations.
Greater Shepparton City Council said it was committed to ensuring a smooth transition for both educators and families impacted by this decision.
Efforts are under way to facilitate the transition of educators to alternative providers wherever possible.
All families and educators have been notified of the impending changes.
Council director of community Louise Mitchell acknowledged that the decision to exit the Family Day Care service was a difficult one.
She emphasised the importance of responsible use of ratepayer funds and the need to continually monitor services to ensure their sustainability.
During the three-month transition period leading up to September 30, council staff will work closely with families and educators to facilitate their transition to new arrangements. The focus will be on prioritising continuity of education and care for the children involved.
Council's decision to transition out of providing its Family Day Care service marks a significant change for the community.
While challenging, this step has been taken to address the declining number of educators and to ensure compliance with regulations.
The council remains committed to supporting educators and families during the transition period, prioritising the continuity of education and care for the children affected.