What an election promise could mean for rural families and childhood education

A billion dollar election promise could change the lives of rural families in childcare deserts. But vocal advocates are calling on the government to legislate now.

A federal government election pledge could see $1bn invested in early childhood education nationally, including regional Australia, from July next year.

But the promise, which could change the lives of rural families nationally, should be legislated prior to voters heading to the polls, according to one advocacy group leader.

The government today announced if re-elected, it would create a $1bn early education fund from July 2025, with a focus on building and expanding early childhood education in areas of need, including regional Australia.

As part of the promised childhood education reforms, families would have access to a guaranteed three days of subsidised care each week from January 2026, instead of having to meet the current activity test requirements.

Childhood education advocacy group The Parenthood campaign director Maddy Butler said the news was welcome, but was keen to see more information regarding what regional sites had been identified as in need of expansion.

Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, announced on Wednesday a $1 billion early education fund, should the Labor Government be re-elected in the new year. Picture: John Appleyard

Ms Butler said the government should commit to the fund and reforms early next year, and called on all candidates to match the commitment, while listening to communities to “create bespoke solutions across regional and remote Australia”.

“A 75-place early learning centre isn’t going to work in a remote part of Australia,” Ms Butler said.

“We need a considered approach to taking on co-design, and reflecting the needs and challenges of the unique aspects of every community.”

Rachel Jaeschke from Coles Bay on the east coast of Tasmania, said as a result of no appropriate childcare for her three young children, she was forced to change careers and work for her husband’s business.

“The return trip each day to take the kids to childcare, and then go to work, was two-and-a-half hours driving each day,” Ms Jaeschke said.

“Another family I know have been on a waitlist for a couple of years, (the mother) hasn’t been able to get back to nursing because she’s not been able to get any childcare, and that has a flow-on effect for the health of our community.

“We need to look at this from a building sustainable communities perspective. There are a lot of capable people living in these areas, but who have to make choices about whether they continue in their roles. It affects families.

“We want to see these promises fulfilled, and it’s a good opportunity for the government to put their money where their mouth is.”