As a provider of Early Childhood Service, we’ve never had to deal with a crisis like this.
It is incredibly challenging and overwhelming.
We understand your fear, your concerns, your questions.
We thought we would address a few frequently asked questions to help families with this information.
Please know our tone is warm, comforting and empathetic as you read this.
ARE YOU STILL OPEN?
Yes, we are still open until directed by the Government/Public Health to close for a shutdown period.
Our dedicated team of educators are at the Centre everyday to provide learning activities for children attending.
DO I CONTINUE PAYING GAP FEES IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT?
Yes, Services can’t remove the gap fees for families without committing fraud.
The Federal Government has extended allowable absences that may occur by each child beyond 42 days (for the financial year) without the need for a medical certificate. A child will be allowed an extra 20 allowable absences for 2019-2020, bringing the total up to 62 days. This scheduled to take effect around 19th April 2020. Parents will not be required a medical certificate to claim additional absences (on top of the 62 days).
Therefore, you are required to pay the gap fee.
HOW LONG CAN MY CHILD BE ABSENT FOR AND CLAIM THE CHILD CARE SUBSIDY?
There is a 14-week cessation rule – this means you can only have your child absent for 14 consecutive weeks to claim the child care subsidy. (Government regulation)
WILL I GET MAKE UP DAYS FOR THESE ABSENCES?
No, make up days are only for Public Holidays. These must be used within the calendar year (as stated in your parent handbook)
HOW CAN I PAY FEES IF I HAVE LOST MY JOB OR MY HOURS HAVE REDUCED?
If you have families that wish to apply for Temporary Financial Hardship please advise them that they are required to contact Centrelink for assistance as services are not able to apply for this.
And/or Adjust your income assessment in My Gov.
HOW IS THE GOVERNMENT HELPING FAMILIES?
There are a number of things in place from the Government to help families.
Firstly, if you or your partner have lost their job or had wages cut, you can go onto your My GOV page and apply for Temporary financial hardship. This means that the Government will pay your childcare fees in FULL for 13 weeks.
IF THERE IS A SHUTDOWN WILL WE CONTINUE TO PAY FEES?
No, The Government has also committed to paying the CCS (child care subsidy) portion of the fees in the event that Centre shutdown due to the advice of Public Health. NO GAP FEES WILL BE CHARGED DURING SHUTDOWN.
WHAT ARE HUNNYPOTS DOING TO REMAIN VIABLE?
Staffing arrangements have been adjusted. We are trying very hard to retain our educators so we have them there after this crisis.
CAN I WITHDRAW MY CHILD AND HOPE FOR AN ENROLMENT LATER?
Yes, you can withdraw your child. It is three weeks written notice.
If the position is there when you later require it, we will offer it to you. This cannot be guaranteed as we are needing active enrolments to remain open.
Your child needs to attend on their last day of enrolment. Your child care subsidy will be removed (not by Hunny Pots, by Centrelink) if your child hasn’t attended their last day – a minimum of 30 minutes.
OTHER INFORMATION
- We will do everything possible to remain a viable service and to continue to providing a high standard of care.
- No fee increases for 2020
- Tigger’s and Pooh Corner will combine as a 3-5-year-old room for the time being. Due to current enrolments, it is necessary to combine for staffing arrangements. The quality of care and education will not be compromised. The preschool program and Transition to School program will continue to be implemented.
Helpful links:
Find rebates and services to reduce the cost of living. Plus browse other services and resources for families in NSW.
https://www.nsw.gov.au/services/services-by-need/families/cost-of-living/
Temporary early release of superannuation. The Government is allowing individuals affected by the Coronavirus to access up to $10,000 of their superannuation in 2019-20 and a further $10,000 in 2020-21.
https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/households
Coronavirus (COVID-19) support and payments We’re experiencing high call volumes and long wait times. If you already get a payment from us, you don’t have to do anything to get the extra financial assistance. We already have your details.
https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/contact-us/phone-us
To get a payment, you’ll need to meet all the eligibility rules including residence rules and income tests. You may get a payment in any of the following circumstances.
Thank you, Stay Safe and Well.
Kind Regards,
Simon & Monique