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Reforming Australia’s childcare system: Why removing profit could make it safer and more affordable
Australia’s childcare system is under renewed scrutiny, with calls growing for a fundamental overhaul that would strip profit out of early learning provision. Advocates argue that prioritising children’s wellbeing over shareholder returns could deliver a system that is both safer and more affordable.
2025-07-30 07:00:03
by Fiona Alston
Economics
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What Australia can learn from the UK’s free childcare funding model
The United Kingdom’s bold expansion of free childcare has been described as both a “fantastic success story” and a policy at risk of collapse. The soaring demand for subsidised places has exceeded expectations, placing enormous pressure on funding and service delivery.
2025-07-30 05:55:41
by Fiona Alston
Economics
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Parents fight to save beloved community preschool as council chooses private provider
Parents in Sydney’s north are rallying to save KU Chatswood Community Preschool, a much-loved KU Children’s Service’s not-for-profit preschool service that has supported families for over four decades, after Willoughby City Council confirmed it was not renewing its lease.
2025-07-29 10:22:23
by Fiona Alston
Economics
Provider
Policy
Parents back calls to expand child care subsidy to include flexible care options
Families, advocates, and some politicians are pushing for Australia’s childcare subsidy to cover more than just centre-based care, arguing that parents need greater flexibility to balance work and family life.
2025-07-29 07:55:20
by Fiona Alston
Economics
Provider
Calls for more accessible low-cost IVF and what it means for early childhood education and care
Rising costs of IVF treatment are putting parenthood out of reach for many Australians, with experts warning this trend could have long-term implications for early childhood services and population planning.
2025-07-29 07:48:10
by Fiona Alston
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Minister Jason Clare delivers national childcare safety plan to Parliament
2025-07-23 10:09:01
by Fiona Alston
Provider
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Workforce
Part-time provisions under review in Children’s Services Award and 10 other modern awards
2025-07-25 08:05:18
by Fiona Alston
Policy
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Research
Childcare: When profit is the motivator, we should be worried
2025-07-28 08:49:16
by Fiona Alston