ABC centre to close

By Lia Bichel
BERWICK North’s ABC Learning Centre will close its doors, leaving many parents stranded for childcare options, and some staff in limbo.
Administrators announced last week that a further eight Victorian ABC centres would close.
“This drawn-out situation has been torturous for parents and staff. Labor has had five months to resolve this situation but has failed to do so,” Opposition Minister for Childhood Development Wendy Lovell said.
“Victorian families have endured months of uncertainty, disappointment and hardship.
“It is astonishing that in all of this, the State Labor Government has been silent despite its role as regulator of this sector.”
Ongoing employment opportunities would only be provided to about 80 per cent of staff who lost their jobs, meaning there would be a loss of about 450 jobs Australia-wide, Ms Lovell said.
“Any job losses in the childcare sector would be a further blow to Victoria,” she said.
“The federal and state Labor governments must ensure that every effort is made to provide children with an alternative childcare place convenient for their families, and to find ongoing employment for staff.”