Council will begin a review of its Occasional Care service in Torquay as it aims to make sure all services meet the needs of the local community in the future.
Occasional Care provides short-term education and care for children aged 1-6 years. It is designed to support families who need care for things like appointments, study, or short breaks.
Council offers 10 four-hour occasional care sessions each week across the Torquay Children’s Hub and Kurrambee Myaring Community Centre (KMCC).
General Manager Community Life Damian Waight said the review is part of Council’s policy of regularly checking how all services are working.
“As our community grows and changes, it’s important that we regularly review how we deliver our services to make sure they are meeting the community’s needs, delivering value to ratepayers, and allowing Council to be financially sustainable,” Mr Waight said.
“We know occasional care is a valued service for many local families.
“We also know that the population of Torquay and the local childcare market have both changed a lot since we introduced the service, so it is a good time to assess Council’s role in this space.”
The review will look at:
- Current and future demand for the service
- Other childcare options available in Torquay
- The long-term financial sustainability of the service
It will also consider feedback from families via Council’s annual Early Years survey.
The review is likely to explore a range of options, including continuing, changing, partnering, or a phased reduction or exit of the service.
“It’s important we reiterate that no decisions have been made at this stage and the review findings will be considered by our Council in the future,” Mr Waight said.
“The review will help Council make a careful, evidence-based decision that supports families and the wider community.”
Council will keep families, staff and the community informed as the review progresses.
Information is available to the community at surfcoast.vic.gov.au/occasionalcarereview.