Closing the gap: Study calls for equitable ECEC access

A new report from Victoria University’s Mitchell Institute reveals that nearly a quarter of Australians still live in ‘childcare deserts’, highlighting a critical need for more equitable early childhood education and care (ECEC) provision.

Despite recent policy reforms to expand early childhood education and care (ECEC) services, a significant number of Australian families continue to face barriers in accessing quality early learning.

According to the Mitchell Institute at Victoria University, around 24 per cent of Australians live in areas defined as ‘childcare deserts’, regions where more than three children compete for each available childcare place. Notably, an estimated 700,000 people reside in areas with little to no access to childcare services.

While the number of childcare places has grown by approximately 10 per cent between 2020 and 2024, this expansion has not been uniform. Affluent urban centres have benefited the most, while rural, regional, and lower-income communities continue to struggle with limited access to services.

The uneven distribution is further compounded by the concentration of services in wealthier areas, where providers can charge higher fees. As a result, families in disadvantaged communities are often left with fewer choices, contributing to ongoing inequities in early childhood education.

The Mitchell Institute’s report calls for targeted policy action to address these disparities. Key recommendations include:

• Implementing needs-based funding models to better allocate resources to underserved areas
• Supporting the establishment of childcare services in identified childcare deserts
• Enhancing backing for non-profit and community-based providers to ensure equitable access across all regions

As Australia works toward a more inclusive ECEC system, ensuring that all children, regardless of postcode, have access to high-quality early learning is identified as a key priority for policymakers and educators committed to equitable outcomes.