Global shifts in early childhood policy: What Australia can learn

As nations like Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States undertake significant reforms in early childhood education and care (ECEC), Australia’s own move toward universal access is unfolding within a broader international context.

Australia: Advancing toward universal access

From January 2026, the Australian Government will implement the Three-Day Guarantee, ensuring all Child Care Subsidy (CCS)-eligible families receive at least 72 hours of subsidised ECEC per fortnight, regardless of work or study activity. This policy removes the longstanding activity test, aiming to enhance equitable access and support children’s development from an early 

To support this transition, the government has allocated $3.6 billion to increase educator wages and $1 billion for the Building Early Education Fund, facilitating the establishment of new and expanded centres, particularly in underserved communities.

Ireland: Maximum fee caps and core funding

Beginning September 2025, Ireland will introduce a maximum fee cap for early learning and childcare services participating in the Core Funding Scheme. Full-day care fees (40–50 hours per week) will be capped at €295 (approximately AU$475) per week. With additional subsidies through the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) and the universal Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) program, some families may pay as little as €198.70 (around AU$320) per week, depending on eligibility. These measures are part of a broader commitment to keep fees below €200 per month per child, supported by €390 million (AU$628 million) in government funding for 2025–2026.

United Kingdom: Expanding funded hours

The United Kingdom is set to expand its early education entitlements, with a phased rollout of 30 funded hours of childcare for eligible working parents of children aged 9 months to 3 years, commencing in September 2025. This builds upon existing provisions for 3 and 4 year-olds and is part of a wider £4 billion (AU$7.6 billion) package announced in 2023 to support families with young children.

The UK Government is also investing in workforce development and digital infrastructure to support the rollout.However, provider groups have raised concerns about funding adequacy and the pace of implementation.

United States: Addressing high costs and limited support

In contrast, the United States does not have a universal childcare system, with most early learning services operating within a private market. According to the Family Database from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), net childcare costs for a dual income couples with two children aged two and three in full-time centre-based care can account for up to 20 per cent of average disposable income.

Comparing models and implications for providers

These international policy shifts reflect varying strategies to invest in early childhood education and care (ECEC), with a shared focus on improving affordability, access, and quality. 

Australia’s Three-Day Guarantee introduces a new model aimed at expanding access to subsidised care. At the same time, workforce shortages, infrastructure demands, and regional disparities in service availability continue to present challenges across the sector.

Key issues for providers include navigating increased administrative requirements, recruiting and retaining qualified educators, and maintaining financial viability in the context of capped fees or constrained public investment.

Examining global approaches, Australian policymakers and providers can draw on key insights to support the development of a sustainable, high-quality ECEC system that meets the needs of both families and providers across the country.