ECE Funding Increase Welcomed

ECE Funding Increase Welcomed

The increase in the early childhood universal subsidy for all children and raising of the income thresholds for targeted assistance for low-medium income families announced in the Budget has been welcomed by the early childhood sector.

New staff qualification and registration requirements coupled with existing staffing shortages have resulted in a substantial increase in costs for early childhood centres.

“We are pleased the Government has recognised that increasing staffing costs are resulting in increasing fees to parents” said Sue Thorne, Chief Executive of the Early Childhood Council.

Cost is clearly one of the most significant factors influencing a parent’s decision to access early childhood education for their child.

“To avoid a drop in participation it is critical that any new regulatory requirements imposed on centres do not adversely impact on the affordability of early childhood education ” said Mrs Thorne.

The Early Childhood Council represents over 800 community-owned and privately-owned education and care centres employing over 5000 staff and catering for over 40,000 children.

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