ACA supports the Federal Government’s recently launched Early Years Strategy

Following major consultation with the early learning sector from January 2023 onwards, this week the Federal Government released the finalised Early Years Strategy, which sets out the government’s vision for the future of Australian children and their families. 

“This marks a significant, historical shift in policy focus and priorities as it is the first time the Australian Government has devised a 10-year strategy for children aged from birth to five years old,” ACA President Paul Mondo said.

The Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA) has played a crucial role in stakeholder discussions that have informed the government's vision and strategy. 

“The ACA is pleased that the strategy acknowledges the importance of the early years in children's development and future outcomes, with a focus on ensuring that all young children have the opportunity to reach their full potential,” Mr Mondo explained.

The strategy aims to support better decision making on policies and programs that affect young children, including the provision of high-quality, affordable Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) services.

In particular, ACA is heartened that the strategy calls for:

• Greater cooperation and coordination between Federal and State/Territory Governments to achieve a national vision for ECEC and preschool funding;
  
  
• A commitment to review higher rates of the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) and the application of the activity test to First Nation families and children; and
  
  
• A commitment to the goals of the Australian Government’s workplace relations reform agenda, including the support, attraction and retention of a high-quality ECEC workforce via a range of measures, including mechanisms that drive increased pay and conditions.

“The key recommendations of the Early Years Strategy reinforce the need for affordable early learning services for all Australian families, along with the critical need for the Australian Government to contribute to a successful wages outcome via the supported bargaining process currently in play,” Mr Mondo concluded.

The ACA looks forward to working with the Australian Government to continue implementing the strategy & ensuring that all children get the best start in life.

You can read the Australian Government's Early Years Strategy here.