We are reviewing our Occasional Care program in Torquay as we aim to make sure all Council services meet the needs of the local community into the future.
Occasional Care provides short-term education and care for children aged 1-6 years.
It is designed to support families who need care for things like appointments, study, or short breaks.
We offer 10 four-hour occasional care sessions each week across the Torquay Children's Hub and Kurrambee Myaring Community Centre (KMCC).
This review is in line with Council's Service Review Policy, which commits us to regularly reviewing all services to check they are meeting the community's needs, delivering value to ratepayers, and allowing Council to be financially sustainable.
The review will look at:
- Current and future demand for the service
- Other childcare options available in Torquay
- The long-term financial sustainability of the service
It will also consider feedback from families via Council's annual survey.
The review is likely to explore a range of options, including continuing, changing, partnering, or a phased exit of the service.
It is important to note that no decisions have been made at this stage.
The review will produce a report and recommendation to help our Council make a careful, evidence-based decision at a future meeting.
We will keep families, staff and the community informed as the review progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the review happening?
We are reviewing our Occasional Care service to make sure it still meets our community's needs.
We have made a commitment to reviewing all Council services periodically to make sure they're fair, easy to access, good value, and financially sustainable.
The population of Torquay and the local childcare market have both changed a lot since we introduced the service, so it is a good time to assess our role in this space.
Is the service closing?
We are reviewing the service and no decisions have been made. While the review takes place, the service will continue to operate as normal.
When will a decision be made?
It is likely the review will take around 6-8 months and a recommendation will then be made to our Council for consideration at a Council meeting during 2027.
I use this service. Will my current booking change?
No. The review will not affect your current booking.
I have further questions. Where can I send them?
If you have any concerns or questions about this review, we'd be happy to hear from you. Please email [email protected].
