Coorong council consults community to address early learning access gaps

Coorong District Council is inviting local families and residents to help shape the future of early learning access in the region, as part of a new feasibility study into child care needs.

Identified as a “child care desert” in 2022, the region continues to face significant shortages in early childhood education and care (ECEC) services. In response, the council has commissioned Community Early Learning Australia (CELA), a national peak body, to lead a detailed study assessing local demand and recommending practical solutions.

Mayor Paul Simmons said child care availability is critical to supporting growth across the district and helping families remain in the area.

“Several of our townships are expected to continue growing over the next decade, and child care availability will be one of the key factors for families when making the decision to move to our district,” he said.

“With the current dry conditions, many farming families are also looking for work off the land. We need to ensure services are there to support them.”

Targeting rural child care shortages

The latest data shows that access to early learning in the Coorong region remains well below state averages. In 2022, there were just 0.119 early learning places per child aged under four. That figure has since improved to 0.392, but it still trails the South Australian average of 0.479.

The Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care found that regional and remote areas have disproportionately higher rates of child care deserts. It also highlighted that access to quality early learning in rural areas plays a vital role in unlocking additional working hours for parents and strengthening local economies.

For Coorong families, limited availability means many are required to travel long distances or may be unable to access care at all, impacting early learning outcomes and workforce participation.

Community consultation now open

Local residents and ratepayers are being encouraged to share their experiences and suggestions through both online and in-person consultation. Drop-in sessions will be held in four townships from 13 to 16 May, with feedback open online until 30 May.

The study will consider current demand, population growth and local workforce needs. CELA will deliver its final report in July with a set of recommendations to guide future investment and planning.

Community insights will play a key role in shaping future service provision and ensuring that early learning access meets the needs of families across the region.

For more information or to participate in the consultation, visit www.coorong.sa.gov.au/stay-informed.