LABOR CONTINUES TO FAIL WORKING FAMILIES IN THE REGIONS

The Albanese Government has rehashed an old, unsuccessful childcare policy that will continue to fail regional families.

After nearly three years and two reviews Labor’s lacklustre childcare announcement shows the government has given up, choosing instead to dust off a failed Rudd-era policy.

In 2007, Labor promised to deliver 260 childcare services on school sites and community land across the country. It discontinued the program after only funding 38.

Member for Barker Tony Pasin said Labor’s announcement was smoke and mirrors.

“Labor has absolutely no credibility when it comes to delivering increased childcare places in the regions,” Mr Pasin said.

“At a time when working families are already struggling under Labor's cost-of-living crisis, this policy will increase demand in a sector that is already at capacity, including in many parts of Australia where there are little or no child care facilities,” Mr Pasin said.

“Families across Barker are already struggling to access childcare. Labor’s policy will only make the situation worse.

“We need Government policy to be focused on increasing supply of childcare and early childhood education. Labor’s proposal to remove the activity test will only increase demand.”

“Albo’s announcements will only increase demand putting additional strain on the sector which is a kick in the guts for childcare service providers in Barker already struggling to find skilled staff, Mr Pasin said.