By Belinda Nolan
PARENTS can breathe a sigh of relief after Brimbank and Melton’s ABC learning centres were taken over last week.
The future of more than 500 ABC childcare centres across the state was secured when they were formally transferred out of receivership last Monday.
The centres, including facilities at Hillside, Deer Park and Burnside, will now be run by GoodStart, a new company set up by four not-for-profit organisations including Mission Australia, the Benevolent Society, the Brotherhood of St Lawrence and Social Ventures Australia.
The company took charge of the centres with the help of a $15 million medium term loan from the Federal Government, along with support from banks and private investors.
Families had been thrown into turmoil following the collapse of the childcare giant in November 2008.
A total of 55 childcare centres were declared unviable and closed down.
In December last year, receivers McGrathNicol announced GoodStart as the preferred purchaser for the majority of remaining ABC centres.
The purchase was formally completed last week.
GoodStart CEO Matthew Horton said the day ushered in a new era for Australian childcare.
“At all of our centres around the country it’s business as usual – just better,” Mr Horton said.
“Our focus is simple. Children’s care and education is our priority.
“Everything we do revolves around improving quality learning and care and creating better outcomes for Australian children.”
