Schools and councils in Great Lakes are encouraged to apply for NSW Government funding to increase the size of existing Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) services or create new services.

MP Stephen Bromhead 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.

“I have written to all school principals informing them that from today applications will be accepted from schools for new services, schools wanting to expand existing services, and local councils in partnership with schools,” Mr Bromhead said.

Grants of up to $30,000 can be used for site modification and fit-out costs, project management, including tendering or regulatory costs, or to pay for necessary equipment to support new or expanded services.

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

As the approval process involves a number of requirements, the time required to establish an OSHC service varies.

This is largely dependent on whether an approved provider is engaged or not.