Dr Briony Scott, CEO of Royal Far West, has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement to consider establishing a national Early Education and Care Commission.
“This is a great first step in the right direction for the most important audience – Australia’s children. It is vital that children and families, and the early education and care (ECEC) workforce from rural and remote communities, be represented in any development of the ECEC system.”
“A well-designed Commission will have the potential to assist governments better map the supply and demand of ECEC across Australia, sustain a strong workforce, lift quality, and ensure the funding model delivers for children and parents, including those families in rural and remote communities,” said Dr Briony Scott.
“Nine million Australians – around 35 per cent of the population – live in childcare deserts, defined as areas with three or more children per available childcare place, while regional areas often suffer from the worst levels of access. The Commission could take the leading role in helping to ensure ECEC services are located where families need them and ensuring a multifaceted approach to strengthen and grow the ECEC workforce in rural and remote communities,” continued Dr Briony Scott.
More than one million Australians rely on ECEC, which requires a strong and safe system to support it.
“Royal Far West will continue to advocate for children and families to ensure that every country child has access to the essential services they need to thrive, supporting their early development and enriching their lives,” added Dr Briony Scott.