LICENSING BUNGLE COULD CLOSE WEST PENNANT HILLS ABC CENTRE
The Member for Berowra, Philip Ruddock MP said that the future of the West Pennant Hills ABC Centre in his electorate could be jeopardised by the Federal Government’s refusal to ensure licensing issues are addressed.
“Our local centre is one of 249 around the country that is being managed by Receivers and kept operational with federal funding until March 31. Hopefully it will then be transferred to a new owner who can continue to deliver this vital service for local families,” Mr Ruddock said.
“However, the deadlines set by the Receivers will mean that it is unlikely there will be time for the State authorities to issue new licenses to allow the Centre to remain open.
“Coalition had called on the Federal government to show leadership and seek an agreement with the States for interim licensing arrangements to ensure continuity of services.
“The Federal government’s response has been to say that licensing is a State responsibility and over $50 million in taxpayer funding has been spent to keep these 249 Centres operational and now they could falter at the last hurdle. This would be a blow to local families in my electorate,” Philip Ruddock said.
With the new Receivers of the ABC2 Group calling for final formal bids on February 25th, and sales having to be concluded less than 6 weeks later on the 31st March, we face a situation where new operators could have to wait weeks or even months for their licence, which is totally unnecessary.
“I call on the Government to clarify this matter and let the industry and the public know exactly how the process for expressions of interest will be managed over the coming months and to provide clarity on licensing to ensure continuity of local childcare services,” Mr Ruddock said.