Peter Walsh – Kinder free in name only as ratepayers help foot bill
Friday 9 August 2024
The Allan Labor Government’s “Free Kinder’” program is far from free.
Ratepayers are helping to foot the bill, according to key Local Government leaders.
A Parliamentary Inquiry into Local Government funding and services has revealed many regional councils are facing substantial financial and logistical challenges in delivering these so-called “free” services.
Warrnambool City Council CEO, Andrew Mason said free kinder is “certainly not free to ratepayers”.
Workforce challenges and the expenses related to construction and infrastructure up-keep of kinder facilities is placing a heavy burden on local governments already struggling with minimal financial support and cost-shifting from Labor.
Executives from Corangamite Shire Council, Pyrenees Shire Council, Moyne Shire Council joined Warrnambool City Council before the Inquiry, providing insight into the insufficient funding support from Labor.
It was revealed the process of applying for grants for the free kinder program is both time-consuming and costly.
Adding to concerns, due to a limited funding pool, the competition is fierce, and there is no guarantee of success.
This not only delays the implementation of kinder programs but also puts additional strain on already stretched council resources and finances preparing grant submissions.
Shadow Minister for Local Government, Peter Walsh said: “Free is not free and local councils are left to pick up the slack”
“The Allan Labor Government’s promise of ‘free’ kinder is misleading and, in effect, a myth,” Mr Walsh said.
“Ratepayers are ultimately footing the bill, and councils are left struggling to meet these demands with insufficient support.”
Shadow Minister for Early Childhood and Education, Jess Wilson, said Labor’s ‘free kinder’ policy was ill-conceived.
“This is causing enormous uncertainty for Victoria’s early childhood education sector,” Ms Wilson said.
“Having delayed the roll-out this program in the recent state budget due to Labor’s record debt, young families across Victoria are facing higher childcare costs and poorer accessibility for years to come.
“Labor cannot manage money, cannot manage early childhood education and Victorian families are paying the price.”
Media contact: Mark Stevens 0412 780 563 [email protected]