New childcare centre for Bondi Junction

The shortage of childcare in Waverley will soon be a thing of the past with a new affordable childcare centre due to start operating in Bondi Junction by early 2011.

Waverley Council has received a $1.6 million grant from the Federal Government to help build a 52-place long day care centre for 0-5 year olds.

Mayor Sally Betts thanked the Federal Government for the grant, saying the money was essential for the council to meet the demand for quality, affordable childcare places.

“We’re very pleased to have been selected for this funding. This new centre will ease pressure for local parents with children aged up to five years and will be a great addition to our existing portfolio,” she said.

The council currently operates three long day care centres and a Family Day Care program in Waverley, with hundreds on their waiting lists.

“We’ve spent a lot of time looking for a place to set up a new centre. Now our own centre can be rebuilt with an additional level,” Councillor Betts said.

The council is now seeking an architect to design the new multi-function early childhood centre expected to cost up to $3.5 million. In addition to the childcare centre, the facility will house a Family Day Care Coordination Unit and other family support and early childhood services.

The mayor said the money was a good investment in future generations.

“Quality early childhood education is important to the social, emotional and educational growth of our children,” she said.

Contingency plans are already in place for moving council staff when construction begins by mid-next year.