ROUGHLY 130 children and their families are set to be affected by the closure of the Williamtown RAAF Base's childcare and preschool centres due to noise exposure.
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The Department of Defence revealed last week its intention to close childcare services on three air force bases (including Williamtown) as a result of extensive noise testing in December 2014.
"While Defence has never received a report for hearing loss or learning difficulties concerning a child who has attended an activity on any of the RAAF bases, it is prudent to advise the early findings that small children may be more sensitive to noise than adults," Air Combat Group Commander Air Commodore Steve Roberton said.
"Research suggests that loud noises may affect children's hearing and also their ability to learn.
"Defence intends to close the centres through a staged transition plan; there is no specific date for the closures."
Port Stephens Council's family day care service is poised to take up the slack left by the impending closure of the Williamtown childcare centre and preschool facilities.
Around 130 children - 90 at the childcare centre and another 40 at the base preschool - are expected to be affected by the closures due to noise exposure and the potential risks to children's health.
Air Commodore Roberton said that families at Williamtown were understandably concerned about continuity of care for their children and that Defence would offer its operator, Mission Australia, support to facilitate new childcare arrangements and minimise disruption.
A Mission Australia Early Learning spokeswoman said that their priority remained with the safety and well-being of children and staff.
"We are working closely with Defence to facilitate on-going arrangements as soon as practicable."
The Port Stephens Council's children services co-ordinator, Lynette Fitz Henry said that the Newcastle/Port Stephens Five Star Family Day Care had been fielding inquiries from families after the announcement was made.
"Five Star offers a range of childcare options ranging from care for babies and toddlers through to before and after school care by qualified educators in their homes," Ms Fitz Henry said.
"We will try to work with families and do all we can to assist them in making alternative arrangements."
Families can find out more on 4980 0308 or visit the website at familydaycare.com.au.
