NT parents keen to support struggling childcare sector, as free childcare scheme comes to an end

ALTHOUGH parents are grateful to have received free childcare during the toughest time of the coronavirus pandemic, they are keen to go back to supporting the struggling childcare sector.

Ali Dos Reis with husband Fabio and children Aluna, 2, and Zenio, 5. Picture: Katrina Bridgeford

• NT educators welcome end of Federal Government’s free childcare scheme
• Free childcare a boon for Territory families

ALTHOUGH parents are grateful to have received free childcare during the toughest time of the coronavirus pandemic, they are keen to go back to supporting the struggling childcare sector.

The $1.6 billion Federal Government scheme, which was announced in early April and provided free child care for all parents, ended yesterday.

Ali Dos Reis, mother of Aluna, 2, and Zenio, 5, said although the scheme was beneficial, she understood it was not sustainable long-term.

“I think for us it’s been a good help but I understand it’s probably put a bit of pressure on the childcare centre,” Ms Dos Reis said.

“They provide such an amazing service so I don’t mind paying because I know that they’re safe and they’re learning.”

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Ms Dos Reis said the government should find a more sustainable way to make childcare affordable for parents.

“It is really hard (to afford) when you’ve got more than one child going into daycare,” she said.