Early Education System Needs Real Support for Families and Educators

The findings of the NSW Legislative Council’s Inquiry into the Early Childhood Education and Care Sector confirm what families and educators across our communities have been saying for years, the system is under pressure and reform is urgently needed.

Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer said the report highlights serious concerns around affordability, accessibility, workforce pressures and the growing compliance burden being placed on providers and educators.

“Our youngest children deserve a system that is safe, high quality and centred on their needs, but right now families and educators are being let down,” Mr Dwyer said.

“Educators are being asked to do more every year, yet many services are struggling with rising costs, staffing shortages and increasing red tape. Without practical support, these pressures will continue to flow directly onto families through higher fees and reduced access to care.”

Mr Dwyer said regulation must be matched with proper funding and support to ensure providers can continue delivering quality outcomes for children.

“Families want access to affordable, reliable early education services and parents deserve genuine choice,” he said.

“This report provides an opportunity for the Government to listen to the experiences of families, educators and providers and deliver meaningful reform that strengthens the sector instead of placing more strain on it.”

Mr Dwyer also expressed concern about the impact of increased annual service fees on providers from July, warning the additional costs may ultimately be passed onto parents.

“We need a system that supports children, values educators and gives families confidence that early childhood education in NSW is accessible, sustainable and focused on quality outcomes,” Mr Dwyer said.

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