As parents of students attending Springfield Central State School, we were left in a difficult situation when our permanent care of 5 years at the neighboring Catholic Primary school was abruptly terminated. In November 2023, we received an email informing us that our ongoing enrolment for Afterschool care would not continue into 2024. This sudden change has had a profound impact on many families, including mine. I personally lost 16 hours of work and am now unable to work past 2.30pm from Monday to Friday.

Springfield Central State School is located in Springfield Lakes QLD, Australia - a community that values education and the well-being of its children. The lack of Before and After School Care (OSCH) services is not only inconvenient but also detrimental to parents' ability to maintain full-time employment and provide for their families.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that over half (52%) of couples with children are both working full time (ABS, 2019). This statistic underscores the importance and necessity of reliable OSCH services for working families.

We urge the administration at Springfield Central State School to establish an OSCH service as soon as possible. It is essential for supporting working parents in our community while ensuring our children have a safe environment outside school hours.

Please sign this petition if you believe in supporting hardworking families by establishing an OSCH service at Springfield Central State School.