The Albanese Labor Government’s commitment today to permanently offer fee-free TAFE courses will further build the foundations of an early childhood education and care sector that gives the necessary support for families and children, United Workers Union said today.
“The 35,500 early childhood education and care fee-free courses offered in the 18 months to June 2024 have undoubtedly helped an early childhood education and care sector that has faced a workforce crisis for far too long,” Carolyn Smith, United Workers Union Early Education Director, said today.
“The extended support for fee-free courses in early childhood education and care means there is finally a chance to address the dreadful and sustained workforce shortages that have affected families and workers alike.
“This announcement also comes as the Albanese Labor Government looks to secure the passage of its $3.6 billion Wage Justice for Early Childhood Education and Care Bill, designed to give 15 per cent pay rises to 200,000 educators.
“Fee-free courses and wage rises are completely in line with addressing the current workforce shortage of 20,000 educators identified in the Jobs and Skills Australia report released in September.
“A larger supply of early educators who are then attracted and retained by higher wages in the sector shows the Albanese Labor Government has a plan for a better early education and care sector that will benefit children, families and workers.
“Overall United Workers Union has the consistent position that early education should be seen as a key component of our public education system, and the Federal Government should embrace this path as part of its reform agenda in the sector.
“It’s only by reforms that allow Governments to take responsibility for early education and care that parents and children can receive the level of quality they deserve.”
ENDS