Early Childhood Educators, have for some time been running the ‘Big Steps’ campaign, urging the Federal Government to fund much needed wage increases in the early learning sector.
While the announcement of funding in the early learning sector in the Federal Budget is welcome, we call on the Federal Government to fund no-less than a 25% wage increase to educators.
ACT Labor recognises the importance of early childhood education and care, and supports a stronger start for all children, and the necessity of secure and appropriately remunerated work in early childhood education and care to provide high-quality services.
ACT Labor deplores the workforce crisis in the early education sector, which has been exacerbated by cost-of-living pressures. Low pay and high workload has exacerbated burnout, with droves of educators leaving the sector. Centres across the ACT are forced to limit enrolments, close rooms and cancel approved leave due to staff shortages.
ACT Labor notes the increased demand expected from families after the Federal Government’s expansion of the Childcare Rebate – which many families will never be able to invoke due to workforce shortages