Council asked to Support Augusta Childcare

Shire officers are recommending Council support families in Augusta with access to childcare.

A report to be tabled at this week's council meeting suggests a once off payment of $50,000 be made to the Augusta and Districts Community Childcare (ADCC) to refurbish the State building they've secured (at 7 Hillview Road, Augusta) to establish daycare services for the Augusta community. Officers are also recommending an additional $50,000 be offered as an interest free loan.

Director Sustainable Economy and Communities, Nick Byrne said the amounts are being offered independent of Shire grant funding programs such as the Community Operating Grants and the Community Development and Events grants, which offer $120,000 and $150,000 respectively to be shared between multiple organisations.

"ADCC's strong commitment to providing regional children with access to quality, inclusive childcare and early learning really is admirable and we're recommending council support the Augusta community by contributing funds to upgrade the state owned building ADCC have secured for their business," he said.

"To develop and deliver outcomes for everyone in our community we need to make responsible investments. Since ADCC approached us, our Shire officers have always focused on finding the simplest and most cost-effective way we can support the childcare needs of Augusta," he said.

"Our one-off cash contribution will help get the business up and running to support the future needs of families in and around Augusta."

ADCC began advocating for childcare services within Augusta and surrounding districts in 2019 and raised the issue of Shire funding via through the Community Care Package Economic Stimulus grant program in 2020.
Council will decide on the matter at the Ordinary Council Meeting to be held on Tuesday 25 June 2024.

For more information, please read the Agenda document.