Bassendean Council to Release Confidential Childcare Sale Documents Amid Backlash
The Town of Bassendean has faced significant criticism over its proposed sale of the Wind in the Willows childcare centre, leading to a decision to release confidential documents and reschedule key meetings. This move comes after intense community opposition, including rallies and a formal Freedom of Information request from concerned parents.
Community Outcry Over Childcare Centre Sale
Wind in the Willows is a not-for-profit childcare centre operating at two locations in Bassendean and Ashfield, currently caring for approximately 120 children. The town announced plans to sell the centre to Cha Cha Cha Pty Ltd, proposing to close the Ashfield location for older children later this year and the Bassendean centre for younger children by mid-2026. This decision sparked immediate backlash, with two rallies held—one outside council chambers and another at the Bassendean centre—attracting numerous families, children, and local MP Dave Kelly.
On its website, the town cited rising operational costs, particularly staffing expenses, and compliance requirements as reasons for the service becoming less sustainable, claiming other experienced providers could meet local families' needs. However, parents and community members have expressed deep concerns about the loss of a trusted childcare option and the transparency of the sale process.
Mayor's Response and Document Release
Despite Mayor Kathryn Hamilton publicly defending the decision to dispose of the centres, she has now requested the release of confidential attachments related to the proposed sale. In a statement, Cr Hamilton said, "Noting the significant community interest in the public notice 'Disposal of Property', and out of respect for the special meeting of electors scheduled for Wednesday, 25 March, I have requested that administration release the confidential attachments in relation to this matter on March 18."
This release is a direct response to the community pressure and aims to provide parents with the answers they have been seeking. A special council meeting has also been rescheduled from Tuesday, March 31, to Thursday, April 9, to allow the town's administration time to consider outcomes from the upcoming special meeting of electors.
Freedom of Information Request and Costs
Prior to this announcement, parents had lodged a Freedom of Information request to access confidential documents, including a service review, councillor workshops on divestment, officer reports, expression of interest documents, and email correspondence between the town and Cha Cha Cha Group Pty Ltd. If granted, this access would have cost the parents over $300 to cover printing charges and staff time, highlighting the financial burden on families seeking transparency.
The special meeting of electors is set to be held at Swan Districts Football Club on Old Perth Road, providing a forum for community discussion and further scrutiny of the sale proposal. This development underscores the ongoing tensions between local government decisions and community welfare, particularly in essential services like childcare.
