Almost 3000 people have signed a petition demanding that Hobsons Bay council continue to manage childcare centres in Altona Meadows and Altona North.
As reported by Star Weekly in February, parents cried tears of joy when the council unanimously voted not to act on a motion to outsource Altona Meadows and Altona North early learning centres, which provide childcare for more than 200 children. If outsourced, 80 staff would have had to reapply for their jobs.
But an independent review of the council’s childcare policy is due to be considered by the council next month.
Rachel Hart, who started the petition with Donna Naismith, said there was overwhelming community support for the two childcare centres to be managed by the council.
“Outsourcing these centres provides no guarantee of the services continuing long-term,” Ms Hart said.
“Waiting lists in the western suburbs are already long and families are struggling to find availability given the shortage of childcare places.
“We feel there is a role for all sectors in the childcare landscape of Hobsons Bay – council-run, not-for-profit, and private.
“Council-run centres have a reputation in the community for excellent standards, processes and monitoring procedures.”
The review examined their finances, among other factors.
Goya Dmytryshchak
