With Tasmanian state elections to be held on 3 March 2018, Uniting Vic.Tas is setting out its position on key issues facing the Tasmanian electorate.
Early childhood education and care allows children to achieve their best. It is crucial to learning, and to living healthy, happy lives into adulthood. Every child deserves to enjoy affordable, high quality early learning for two years before starting school.
Challenges faced by the early learning sector in Tasmania include:
- An unstable, poorly-paid workforce. Significant numbers of educators leave the profession every year
- Affordability. Families spending on average 15% of their income on childcare
- An unpredictable funding framework
- A lack of capacity to care for children with special needs
It is time to recognise that childcare is a crucial element in Tasmania’s education system. Providing quality early childhood learning lays a foundation for future learning success. A good start can make the difference that moves the next generation out of poverty.
Uniting supports the introduction of accessible and affordable childcare for all children from the age of three. This childcare is best delivered in a play-based environment and not a school.
You can read our full position statement here.
