The Federal Government has released a discussion paper to best identify the childcare and early learning services needs for the country's most vulnerable families are met, now and in the future. 

 

Minister for Early Childhood and Child Care, Kate Ellis announced the Government consultation today, saying it will focus on funding to support child care and early learning services in urban, regional, remote and Indigenous communities under the Budget Based Funded (BBF) program. 

 

“With more children in early childhood services than ever before, it is critical that our children receive quality care and educational opportunities, regardless of their family background or where they live,” Ms Ellis said. 

 

“Importantly, the consultation I’ve announced today follows the Government's commitment of $59.4 million to improve the quality of centre-based BBF services, including ongoing funding to raise staff qualifications and support building maintenance.” 

 

A discussion paper entitled Quality Early Childhood Education and Care for Children in Regional, Remote and Indigenous Communities: A Review of the Budget Based Funding Program will be the focus for these conversations. 

 

The discussion paper and factsheets, including how to have your say and the consultation schedule, are available at www.deewr.gov.au/bbfreview