Family day care is a chance to earn

CAMPASPE Shire is searching for family day carers to cut down waiting lists in the area.The shire’s small towns are missing out, with 60 regional families on waiting lists for family day care services. Community and culture portfolio holder Cr Carol Howell said services were accredited with the National Childcare Accreditation Council.By taking on the job, carers would help alleviate the shortage of childcare places.“Family day care is a viable career choice offering the flexibility of working from home and the ability for carers to set their own hours and fees for services,” she said.“Carers provide a valuable service that makes a difference to the lives of children and families in the community.”Cr Howell said family care could be run in a diverse range of settings from homes in town to farmhouses.“Family day care is an ideal opportunity for families to earn extra income from home.”The council is looking for carers to take on the role in the Girgarre, Rushworth, Gunbower, Lockington and Torrumbarry regions.Carers are trained by the council’s early childhood professionals and could earn between $20,000 and $50,000 a year.In the family day care program, children range from babies to pre-teens and beyond.Care is offered before and after school, during school holidays, and on some nights and weekends.An information session for prospective carers will be held on Monday at the Echuca Civic Centre function room from 7pm.Information packs are available by calling Vicki on 1300 666 535.