Media release
14 June 2022
The Early Learning and Care Council of Australia (ELACCA) congratulates the New South Wales Government on its $5 billion investment in early learning and care, which will lower fees for families, improve access for children and support teachers and educators.
‘We are delighted that the Perrottet Government is recognising the crucial role of early learning and care in the state’s economic and social infrastructure,’ said ELACCA CEO Elizabeth Death.
‘We know that high-quality early learning is a great foundation for a lifetime of achievement, health and happiness,’ Ms Death said. ‘It also enables parents to work outside the home, increasing family wellbeing and broader economic activity.
‘The Government’s investment will pay dividends for decades to come.’
ELACCA is particularly pleased to welcome the package of support for the early learning and care workforce. The current shortage of early childhood teachers and educators is constraining the capacity of early learning and care services and creating considerable stress for existing staff.
‘Scholarships are an important element in creating the next generation of teachers and educators. However, retention bonuses are just as important, especially while we await the next steps in the National Workforce Strategy for the early learning and care sector,’ Ms Death said.
‘We look forward to working closely with Minister Mitchell and her department to help implement the new policies.’
