Labor is again calling for a faster rollout of the government’s Working Together early learning program to provide additional support to children, families and the childcare sector.
Shadow Education and Early Years Minister Josh Willie said despite the government’s statement today that “all three year old children deserve the opportunity to experience early learning“, the program is still capped at 120 places.
“There is widespread support in the community to help children successfully transition to kindergarten,” Mr Willie said.
“Access to early learning is especially important during the uncertainty of COVID-19, when many families continue to struggle to make ends meet.
“The Federal Government’s reintroduction of childcare fees and the reduction in JobKeeper payments means many families will no longer be able to afford childcare and there is the potential for job losses in the sector, threatening the viability of some childcare centres.
“Given the Federal Government’s lack of leadership on this issue, the Tasmanian Government now has an opportunity to step in and help the sector, as well as giving children the chance to thrive as they begin their formal education.
“The State Government has the capacity to help meet the needs of Tasmanian children, families and the childcare sector – it just needs the will to do so.
“Our children deserve the best possible start in life. Let’s give them all the support they need so they can achieve their full potential.”
Josh Willie MLC
Shadow Education and Early Years Minister
