Murrindindi Shire Council is transitioning its Family Day Care (FDC) service to third-party providers to ensure continued access to quality childcare for local families.
This decision comes in response to ongoing workforce challenges and financial pressures that have impacted the sustainability of the service. By working with external providers, Council aims to secure a stable and effective childcare service for the community into the future, with parents and children across our communities continuing to receive the same care under this new arrangement.
Council has made concerted efforts in recent years to support early years education, including workforce strategies, infrastructure reviews, and the adoption of the Kindergarten and Childcare Strategy 2024–2029. Despite these proactive measures, external factors have necessitated this transition. Recent staffing changes, including the resignation of five educators and the Coordination Officer, have further limited the service's ability to meet compliance requirements under the National Quality Framework (NQF) and the Children's Services Act 1996. Current educator-to-child ratios also restrict capacity, reducing the service's viability.
Families can expect continuity in the high level of care they have come to rely on. The eight remaining educators are being supported to connect with alternative providers. Council will work closely with families to ensure the process is as seamless as possible and provide guidance and communication throughout the transition to minimise disruption.
Council remains committed to supporting early years education and maintaining the availability of high-quality childcare services in the region. Transitioning to third-party providers will help secure a sustainable approach to delivering these services in line with community needs.
