CEO Jacqui Emery emphasised that these bold commitments directly tackle the persistent barriers regional families face in accessing quality, universal early learning.
“It’s long overdue that we break the cycle of poor health, education, and social outcomes for our children. Quality early learning and care is not a luxury—it’s a proven foundation that sets children on the path to lifelong success.
“We urge the Coalition to preserve the critical progress embodied in the Early Childhood Education and Care (Three Day Guarantee) Bill 2025, including scrapping the unfair Activity Test that limits access.
“Research shows that children with access to early learning and developmental support are more engaged at school, have higher prospect of finishing school and participating in the workforce. They are less likely to have mental health issues and come into contact with the justice system.
“We need policies and funding models that reduce barriers to access for all children, in particular our most vulnerable that stand to benefit the most. I hope that this election marks a turning point, with a truly bipartisan approach to giving all children the early supports they need to thrive,” Ms Emery said.