Abc Learning Sale - A Great Week For Childcare Says Childcare Union

Embargo: 11 am Wednesday - 9 December 2009
Childcare union on sale of ABC Learning Centres: A great week for childcare

The LHMU, the childcare union, welcomes today's announcement that non-profit company GoodStart will be the new owner of ABC Learning centres.

Sue Lines, LHMU Assistant National Secretary says "Today's announcement is a great victory for the dedicated childcare professionals who have stuck with ABC Learning since the company collapsed on 6 November 2006.

"The past 13 months have been a difficult time for ABC Learning staff. Their hard work in keeping the centres going and in providing stability for the children they care for and educate has finally paid off.

"The failure of the bid by private equity company ArcherCapital is also a victory for quality childcare in Australia.

"LHMU members have worked hard for this outcome lobbying anybody and everybody to ensure these centres were sold to an operator with a long-term commitment to quality childcare committed to providing quality early education and care for families.

"LHMU members have already been working with GoodStart to ensure quality conditions at these centres. We look forward to a continuing a productive relationship.

"There are many lessons to be learned from the collapse of ABC Learning. One of the most important is that the regulation and licensing of childcare services needs greater control by government.

"On Monday the Council of Australian Governments took some important steps in this direction. They also announced the most significant changes to our childcare system in many years.

"It's been a great week for childcare in Australia," says Sue Lines.

GoodStart is a non-profit company established by Social Ventures Australia and charities Mission Australia, the Benevolent Society and the Brotherhood of St Laurence.

Contact:
Nada Vlatko
- 0425 242 691

www.lhmu.org.au

SOURCE: LHMU