The Department of Human Services, which owns the kindergarten building, has agreed to a three year lease, following a five year campaign by parents for a more secure arrangement.

Previously the Burwood kindergarten had operated under six-month leases.

Wattle Hill kindergarten teacher Sofi Galanis said the longer lease provided certainty for staff, students and the community.

‘‘It just makes it easier to maintain a positive environment,” she said. ‘‘It’s so important to be able to plan long-term and not have to live six months to six months.’’

The Department of Human Services leases the kindergarten building to Whitehorse council, which sublets it to the not-for-profit kindergarten.

Whitehorse council had supported the campaign for a three-year lease.

The kindergarten caters for 59 students, many of whom live in the surrounding public housing units.

It expects to receive the lease agreement this month.

Parents group president, Karen Woods, said parents were happy with the lease but would continue to fight for a longer agreement. She hoped the new lease would prompt the state government to take better care of the 80-year-old building.

Whitehorse council human services general manager Terry Wilkinson said the building had deteriorated in recent years but remained suitable for operations. He said the state government was responsible for major structural maintenance.

Burwood MLA Graham Watt said the new lease was a fantastic outcome for the Burwood community.

“I’m committed to making sure that the Wattle Hill Kindergarten remains a vital local early education centre where the children have the best possible opportunity to learn,” he said.