Essential health workers in four of NSW’s newest hospitals will have access to onsite extended hours childcare thanks to an $8 million investment in the 2022-23 NSW Budget.
Onsite childcare services will be built at Westmead, Bankstown-Lidcombe, Shellharbour and Shoalhaven hospitals and the NSW Government will review its other existing and planned hospitals to look for other opportunities to ensure hospital staff have access to childcare facilities that suit their working needs.
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said this important initiative will provide our essential health workers with more flexibility helping nurses, doctors, allied health and support workers to balance raising a family with their vital work.
“This initiative is about offering more childcare options helping secure a brighter future for our frontline workers and their families,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Our strong economy means we can invest more money in services, community amenity like this and take the pressure off households.
“This will help strengthen our frontline services by building what matters to make daily life better.”
Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said this boost will mean women and families no longer need to choose between work or caring for their children.
“It is so important that we support our healthcare workers so they can continue to provide the care our communities need,” Mrs Taylor said.
Treasurer Matt Kean said many nurses, doctors and hospital support staff do not work 9-5 and need flexible childcare that suits their hours.
“This is all about looking after the little ones of those who look after our loved ones,” Mr Kean said.
Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said this investment will benefit the NSW Health workforce.
“I am sure these work-based and extended hour childcare centres will make it easier for our hardworking health staff to manage the day-to-day demands of balancing work and family responsibilities,” Mr Hazzard said.
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said this initiative is all part of the government’s reforms to early childhood education and care sector.
“I want to see as many parents benefitting from childcare no matter their job or the hours they work,” Ms Mitchell said.
