Cr Lorraine Wreford confirmed that she had withdrawn her rescission motion, paving the way for the council to register an interest in ABC centres, which may be sold in Casey.

Cr Wreford told the Journal several factors had influenced her decision, including "probably a lack of support".

"I still firmly believe in my position to not jump into something," Cr Wreford said.

"But with so many newcomers on council who have a lot to get their heads around ... I don't think anyone really understands the issue [yet], so I decided it didn't matter in the end."

Cr Wreford said councillors would be better informed after a briefing and report on the issue from council officers.

Registering an interest to the receiver of the troubled child-care company does not compel the council to buy centres, which may be put on the market.

Five ABC centres will close in Casey at the end of the year and the future of another seven is uncertain.

Former councillor Paul Richardson, who had supported the rescission motion, said he was disappointed Cr Wreford had not informed him of her change of mind.