The financial woes facing the private childcare operator, ABC Learning Centres, has prompted Charles Sturt University (CSU) academic, Ms Frances Press, to express concern about its implications for the provision of childcare in Australia.

 

There is speculation of a sell off of parts of ABC Learning in the wake of a dramatic share price fall on Tuesday 26 February and a disappointing half yearly profit announcement on Monday 25 February.

 

The company says ABC Learning facilities will continue to operate as normal.

 

A senior lecturer with the CSU School of Teacher Education in Bathurst, Ms Press says the developments are of concern and raises questions about whether it is appropriate for one major corporation to own such a large stake in the childcare market.

 

“That ABC currently has about 30 percent of long day care places in Australia is unusual. No other country entrusts so much childcare to just one provider,” said Ms Press.

 

“The current financial plight of the company could have major ramifications for staff and parents of children attending ABC facilities. The central issue here is about childcare policy.  What do we want for children? I think that many families want a stable and high quality care and education sector that is an integral part of the community.  When childcare centres are viewed primarily as a financial investment, this ideal is placed at risk”.