NSW Government fails to renew Big Fat Smile lease – site to become new school instead

The New South Wales Department of Education has told families accessing the Big Fat Smile early childhood education and care (ECEC) service at Milton that the lease for the site will not be renewed. 

Speaking with the ABC Big Fat Smile chief executive Kim Bertino said the centre was notified last week that it would not be able to remain at the site, and that the provider has been “trying to work towards having a temporary site where the centre is located at the moment.” 

“With the department, it’s been unsuccessful to remain on that site and there is no option to extend,” Ms Bertino said. 

Families have been given four weeks notice to access alternative ECEC placements, with many indicating that other centres in the area are full.

The site where the service currently operates is subject to a development application which is currently before Shoalhaven Council for consideration. The development application centres around a new school for children with additional needs. 

In 2020 the state government announced a plan to relocate the Budawang School for Specific Purposes to part of the site in a move that would benefit about 30 students with special needs.

All major political parties on the South Coast have also made NSW election commitments to utilise the site for public education in the future.

A statement from the Department, shared with the ABC indicated that the Department was working with nearby providers to increase local capacity where possible and assist impacted families to find alternate care options.

“Families can be assured there is capacity at nearby services,” a spokesperson said.

Plans to establish a new early childhood centre at the site are currently underway and further updates will be provided to the community in coming months. Those who have further questions or need additional support have been encouraged to contact the Department on 1800 619 113.

Access the original coverage of this story here.