INVESTING IN CHILDREN’S EARLY YEARS PAYS OFF FOR DECADES TO COME

Now that families have settled down into their 2019 routine, it’s worth reflecting on the fact that around 22 per cent of Australian children are starting school without the foundation they need through access to pre-school and early learning.

We no longer think of pre-school as just babysitting or childminding. Children from 0-5 have brains doing incredible development, and that learning through play is crucial to give them the best chance as they move through school.

Knowing how important those early years are, a Labor Government will provide access to preschool for every three and four year olds. That means extending the current subsidy for 4 year olds to the 3 year olds, and it’s an investment that will pay off for decades to come.

Universal access to preschool for 4 year olds was introduced by Labor when it was last in Government, but that funding is due to dry up at the end of the year and the Morrison Government has so far refused to guarantee its continuation. The lack of funding certainty is leaving early educators, providers and families in limbo.

Adding to the strain locally, Hawkesbury children with additional needs are waiting up to 18 months for early intervention assessments and services, following Federal and State
Government changes to the early intervention support system.

Directors of local preschools have told me that, under the changes, some children could start school without receiving the early support they need. They’re concerned about delays for