An Albanese Labor Government will deliver $15,000 to create a Blue Mountains toy library, helping families manage the rising cost of living and children reach developmental milestones, Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman has said.

The funding would be used to purchase safe and fun age-appropriate toys and equipment that can be leant out to families to vary the weekly play routine. 

“We are very excited that Belong Blue Mountains Neighbourhood Services have agreed to lead the toy library service roll out and have committed to resourcing staff and infrastructure long term,” Ms Templeman said.

“Belong Blue Mountains has the geographic spread of access points with Neighbourhood Centres in Blaxland, Lawson and Katoomba that will ensure accessibility for community. Belong will invite community service organisations working with families and children across the Mountains to explore delivering the toy library in partnership to increase reach for families.

“I remember when my kids were young and money was tight that it was such a relief to have the local toy library.

“It meant the kids could choose something different every week or two and have a wide variety of toys to play and learn with, without it costing us a fortune.

“You really never know which toy is going to become a favourite, and toy libraries are a great way to ‘try before you buy’ without the huge outlay.

“The rising cost of living is a huge concern to so many in our community, and this is one more way to ease the costs for families and people caring for young children.

“After a decade of Scott Morrison and the Liberals, the cost of living is out of control. But unlink Mr Morrison who only makes excuses, Labor will do a range of things to make sure it’s easier for families to get ahead and stay ahead.

“While commitments like this one seem small, they can make a big difference to the services that can be offered to local families to help them with everyday costs.

“Along with our plan to make child care cheaper for 97 per cent of families in the system - removing the financial barriers that discourage predominantly women from working more hours and pursuing their careers – this is something that will help ease the strain on household budgets.”

Belong CEO Kath Harrison said, “We are so grateful for this support from our local member. It such important work and Belong Blue Mountains are keen for this to be a community asset that enhances existing work with families and children across the sector.”

Belong Manager, Family, Children, Youth and Community, Danielle Wilding-Forbes said, “The team are so excited at the prospect of embarking on this roll out, they are keen to involve parents and carers in the service design and in particular toy shop