After school care fees a concern for parents

STANTHORPE parents say they fear proposed substantial fee increases at Stanthorpe OSHC will affect their livelihoods and have detrimental effects on their financial stability and ability to work.

As the Border Post revealed on May 26, the daily rates of OSHC have been proposed to increase from $19 per child to $30 and $44 to $60 on a vacation or pupil-free-day by the 2022-23 financial year.

Many parents told the Border Post they were unsure how they were going to afford care in coming years if the price hike was to eventuate.

A mother of three who wished to remain anonymous said the proposed hikes would hit her family hard.

“I’d rather it not be increased, for me obviously it’s going to be a bit of a stretch because I work as well, but there isn’t a whole lot of options,” she said.

Due to limited choice, some parents said the affordability of OSHC would depend on Centrelink payments and subsidies.

Deirdre Wallace, whose daughter attends OSHC, said while there are some initial concerns she would still continue with the “great service”.

“It’s a shame about the price increase as it makes it unavailable for some people,” she said.

Chris Smith, whose daughter attends Stanthorpe OSHC four days a week, was glad the service would continue.

“It’s a necessity for us, as myself and my wife work beyond the school hours and there is very little in the way of other alternatives,” he said.

Mr Smith said the increase was affordable for his family, but said the state government could do more to ease the financial burden for parents.

“Such a significant jump is going to create a barrier for people who can’t afford it and that’s a concern,” he said.

Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi said that a move to the new site at 27 March St would no doubt “improve everyone’s experience”.

“OSHC is a vital community program with a bright future and I am positive that the new location will be well received by the Stanthorpe community,” he said.