Extra child care available during olympics

Extra child care places will be available temporarily in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory during the Olympics, Federal Minister for Community Services Larry Anthony announced today.

“The extended three week school holiday period, combined with those parents reorganising their work commitments or serving as volunteers during the Olympics will place a greater demand on child care services,” Mr Anthony said.

“In order to meet additional requests for vacation care during this time the government has approved a pool of places able to be allocated quickly and effectively to existing child care services.

“The additional places will be allocated according to each service’s demonstrated need, consultation with the local community and the proven ability to provide extra child care places.”

Mr Anthony said the additional places will give parents affordable, convenient and quality child care service throughout the entire school holiday period.

“Parents busy with work commitments will have peace of mind knowing that their children are receiving care from qualified carers,” Mr Anthony said.

“This flexible approach is further evidence of the Government’s ongoing support of the need to provide child care to suit the needs of families in various situations.”