Kingston Council announces $2.8m assistance package for ECEC and community

The City of Kingston, located in the middle and outer southern suburbs of Melbourne, yesterday launched their $2.8 million COVID-19 community and business support package which includes specialised support for the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector.

The announcement is significant as the Australian ECEC sector more broadly awaits the outcomes of tomorrow’s National Cabinet meeting, with providers and unions around the country joining with advocacy groups to plead for Government intervention to maintain the viability of the sector. 

Kingston is one of Victoria’s major employment centres, with over 15,000 businesses employing over 70,000 people. Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley said Council wanted to support local businesses, community groups and vulnerable residents during these unprecedented times.

With many constituents “doing it really tough” Ms Oxley said it was important for the Council to find a way to relieve financial pressure. 

Specific to the ECEC sector in Kingston, the Council said it would “be waiving the family contribution to childcare fees (conditions apply) as well as the Family Day Care Educators Fee for three months (up to six months if State of Emergency remains in place).”

Specifically in relation to parent fees, those families who are attending Council run services and find themselves facing extreme financial hardship as a result of the pandemic will be able to apply to have the parent fee portion of their fees waived. 

For those services who operate from Council buildings, commercial rents will be waived for three months, extending to six months if a state of emergency remains. 

Further information about the support package is available here.