Schools and councils in Ku-ring-gai are encouraged to apply for NSW Government funding to increase the size of existing Out of School Hours Care services or create new services, Member for Ku-ring-gai Alister Henskens SC said today.

Mr Henskens said the NSW Government understands working parents need flexibility and accessibility to differing childcare services which is why the Out of School Hours Care grant program has been expanded.

“From today, applications will be accepted from schools for new services, schools wanting to expand existing Out of School Hours Care services and local councils in partnership with schools,” Mr Henskens.

“This will open up more places for our kids and enable our local school communities to better meet this growing demand.”

Grants of up to $30,000 are available to help with the cost of establishing or extending existing OSHC services. The grants can be used for fit-outs, tendering or equipment costs by schools with new or existing OSHC services.

Minister for Early Childhood Education Leslie Williams said the NSW Government recognises that families need early childhood education care options.

“We are delivering on a NSW Liberals & Nationals Government election commitment to increase the number of before and after school care places avaiable for parents.

“We encourage parents who need before and after school places to get in touch with their schools.”

For criteria and applications visit: https://beforeandafterschoolcare.smartygrants.com.au/