Wednesday, 15 November 2023

Darebin early learning centres

Sheena WATT (Northern Metropolitan) (09:52): Today I rise to express my deep appreciation for the community campaign to save the 18 community-run early learning centres throughout the City of Darebin. Darebin council’s perplexing choice to shorten childcare centre leases from five years to a mere two, with a tentative option of an additional three, stands as a direct blow to our community. Once these two-year leases expire, these centres will likely be burdened with unreasonable taxes, fees and costs, posing an unjust strain on the families of Darebin from the local council. Last Thursday I attended a community event alongside my colleagues the members for Northcote and Preston in the other place and Darebin councillor Emily Dimitriadis. Together we listened to the local parents, the educators and the staff, who shared emotional accounts of the devastating impact that Darebin council’s recent decision holds for local families.

The Allan Labor government knows the importance of high-quality early childhood education for local families and for each and every Victorian child. We must also acknowledge the childcare workers whose jobs the council is putting at risk. These childcare workers and ASU members have openly voiced their concerns about this change, and I will stand with them through these troubled times. During the heartfelt conversations last Thursday it was abundantly clear that the community stands behind this campaign. I am immensely proud to stand side by side with them in this crucial endeavour. Our community deserves better. I implore Darebin council to demonstrate their support for early learning centres by granting them five-year leases, maintaining the same conditions they currently enjoy.