Speaking after the special Council meeting, Glen Eira Mayor Cr Anne-Marie Cade said the decision was made having considered ever-increasing operating costs, fewer families using the centres, the strong supply of local childcare places and the considerable feedback received during the consultation process.

“The community told us that they did not want a 21 December close, and we have listened to them,” Cr Cade said.

“We will continue to operate the centres for term 1, 2024, before closing on 28 March 2024.

“Pushing back the closing date responds to feedback from directly affected families who said they needed more time to find alternate care that best suits their needs, as well as staff who needed more time to find a new role through redeployment within Council or career support.”

Cr Cade said Family Support Officers continue to be on hand to help families and staff during the transition, with Council recognising the final decision would be challenging for some members of the community.

“As a parent, this was a very hard decision, and we know that some members of the community will be disappointed, but it has been made to help ensure we can meet current and future service demands across the whole municipality,” Cr Cade said.

Glen Eira has 58 childcare centres and more than 5,700 places, with another nine childcare centres are being planned. Council is confident the strong supply of places will meet current and future need.

Council thanked all those who participated in the consultation process and helped inform the final decision.

Affected families and staff have been advised of this decision, with more information relevant to their particular circumstances to be provided in the coming days.