In a regional area and want to boost access to ECEC? Advocacy tips here!

The Childcare Leadership Alliance has issued a series of tips and advice for advocates seeking to boost access to early childhood education and care (ECEC) in regional areas.

 

In many regional areas, a lack of access to ECEC hampers economic growth in communities, and limits the ability of parents to access the workforce, also depriving children of access to invaluable early childhood education. 

 

As with their metro counterparts, services in regional areas are also challenged by long waiting lists, limited options, and financial constraints. 

 

The Childcare Leadership Alliance suggests the following resources and actions to help champion better access to ECEC in regional communities: 

 

Gather the facts:

 

• Know your numbers: Start by understanding the landscape in your area. Gather information on available services, costs, and waiting list lengths.
• Speak to families and providers: Conduct surveys, hold community forums, and connect with parents and educators to understand their specific experiences, challenges, and needs.

 

Raise awareness:

 

• Share your stories: Personal narratives are powerful tools. Share your own experience or those of families you know who struggle with access to early childhood education and care services. Use social media, local media outlets, and community events to spread the word.
• Organise events and campaigns: Host information sessions, petition drives, or awareness campaigns to bring the issue to the attention of local decision-makers and the wider community.

 

Take action:

 

• Connect with advocacy groups: Join forces with like-minded organisations and peak bodies. They can offer resources, training, and support for advocacy efforts.
• Contact your local representatives: Make your voice heard by writing to your local council, Member of Parliament, and any relevant government ministers. Clearly voice your concerns and propose solutions you believe would improve regional offerings of early childhood and school-age care. 
• Get involved in decision-making processes: Attend public hearings, participate in council meetings, and join advisory groups related to early childhood and school-age care in your area. Make sure your community’s needs are represented.

 

Remember:

 

• Be collaborative: Building partnerships with other community groups, businesses, and government agencies can amplify your voice and lead to more sustainable solutions.
• Be persistent: Advocacy is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay informed, and engaged, and continue to raise awareness until change happens.
• Celebrate your successes: Acknowledge and share the progress you make, no matter how big or small. Each step forward brings us closer to a brighter future for regional children and families.

 

Additional resources:

 

• The Parenthood: https://www.theparenthood.org.au/ 
• Thrive by 5: https://thrivebyfive.org.au/ 

 

For more information about the work of the Childcare Leadership Alliance, which is an active advocacy body in Queensland please see here.