Due to repeated and ongoing break-ins at the Yirrkala Child Care Centre, East Arnhem Regional Council (EARC) has made the difficult and necessary decision to close the Centre for the next two weeks. The break-ins have caused significant and widespread damage to the building and children’s learning materials and equipment.

This decision is based on concerns about the safety of the children in our care and our staff members. EARC is aware of the operational and financial impacts this closure may have on families. However, EARC cannot ask its staff to bear the unacceptable burden of intrusion, disruption, distress, and personal safety.

EARC will continue to further increase security at the Yirrkala Child Care Centre. We plan to reopen the service to the Community on Wednesday, 14 May, after a thorough evaluation of the safety of the Centre. EARC will consider and advise further closures dependent on effective action to prevent ongoing break-ins.