Free long day care at Fairfield City Council
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Published Wednesday, 8th April 2020
Fairfield City Council will waive its long day care fees in line with the Federal Government’s announcement last week that families will have access to free long day care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Federal Government’s Early Childhood Education and Care Relief Package partially covers the cost of care for families sending their children to long day care services, with Council picking up the shortfall. Council has 1,425 long day care places per week across nine childhood centres.
Unlike private providers, council-run long day care services are not eligible for JobKeeper payments, and with a 50% reduction of income and no ability to charge families a fee, this represents a cost to Fairfield City Council of approximately $70,000 per fortnight.
While some councils have made the decision to close their centres to cut costs, Council has committed to keeping its long day care services open.
Fairfield City Mayor Frank Carbone said it is important to support local families with young children in this challenging time.
“We understand that now, more than ever, family budgets are under pressure and that it is important for parents to be able to continue working,” Mayor Carbone said.
“We also understand that access to early childhood education is critical to the development and wellbeing of children and we remain committed to providing this to the community.
“I have written to Prime Minister Scott Morrison expressing disappointment that our long day care programs aren’t receiving JobKeeper funding or any other financial support. However, this does not change Council’s commitment to supporting local families with quality care.
“Council is committed to the health and wellbeing of residents and families while still providing access to important services. Together we will get through this.”
Council’s centres are safe and nurturing spaces for young children. Council has strengthened cleaning and hygiene practices to give families added peace of mind.
Council has closed and made changes to a number of its other services in light of the Coronavirus pandemic. For a full list of changes, visit www.fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au/coronavirus.
We will continue to provide updates to the community as and when changes occur.