[Greens-Media] Media Release : Government doesn’t have the answers as the Wyndham Early Learning Activity Centre faces an uncertain future

[Redman, Chris (Sen R. Siewert)]

19 June 2013

Government doesn’t have the answers as the Wyndham Early Learning Activity Centre faces an uncertain future

The Federal Government has today avoided Australian Greens questions about the future of the WELA Centre in Wyndham, compounding concerns it may be forced to drastically reduce staffing levels after June 30th due to lack of funding.

Senator Rachel Siewert said today that WELA – the Wyndham Early Learning Activity Centre was very important to the region and that any reduction would leave a massive gap in the provision of services and support to the community.

“The WELA Centre is a highly regarded and has been built up over a number of years and delivers a range of programs that are helping to Close the Gap in Wyndham,” Senator Siewert said today.

“WELA is continuing to grow and extend its reach in the community, all from a near-new building in Wyndham, which cost $1.7 million and was opened by the Prime Minister less than one year ago.

“Unfortunately the capacity of WELA will be reduced from 1 July, when staffing levels are reduced from five staff to two part time roles.

“While the Parents & Communities Engagement Program (PACE), which helps fund some of WELA’s work, received more money in the Federal Budget, this funding does not commence until January 1. On top of that, it’s not clear whether WELA will receive a new round of funding at that time and how long after the 1 January the actual funds will be available.

“As of yesterday, WELA still didn’t know their funding situation beyond 30th of June this year.

“When I asked the Government about this issue in the Senate today, all we heard were generalisations about the benefits of PACE Program, but nothing that will give the people of Wyndham any confidence.

“It was clear that the Government does not know what initiatives will receive new funding, nor what effects any delays will have.

“Operations such as WELA are important in regional and remote locations across Australia, and the Kimberley is no exception. I will continue to pursue this issue with the Government until the community gets the answers it needs,” Senator Siewert concluded.