COWPER FAMILIES’ FORUM ON LOCAL CHILDCARE CRISIS

Much of the Mid North Coast of New South Wales is a childcare desert, where at least three children compete for an early learning and care place.

Ahead of the Federal Election, The Parenthood has invited local candidates to hear from affected parents at an event on 29 March in Nambucca Heads.

-              Caz Heise, Independent - CONFIRMED

-              Greg Vigors, ALP - CONFIRMED

-              Chris Walsh, One Nation - CONFIRMED

-              Peter Jackel, Family First - CONFIRMED

-              Pat Conaghan, The Nationals - WILL SEND VIDEO MESSAGE

Families are encouraged to drop in with their children and share their struggles with childcare directly with their potential Federal representatives.

There will be a particular focus on the healthcare workforce and the challenges facing essential workers when they can’t access care. Everyone in the community is encouraged to join.

Family-friendly food and activities will be provided. RSVP here or walk-ins are welcome.

Cowper parents, carers, educators and community members outside of Nambucca are encouraged to share their feedback and questions for the candidates with The Parenthood's virtual "suggestion box".

FORUM DETAILS:

WHEN: Saturday 29 March, 3pm – 5pm. Candidates will arrive at 4pm.

WHERE: Nambucca Community and Arts Centre, 21 Ridge Street, Nambucca Heads 2448

WHO: The Parenthood Campaign Director, Maddy Butler, local Cowper candidates.

Media are encouraged to attend. Maddy Butler is available for comment.

Childcare is lacking in NSW electorate Cowper. Services are particularly scarce in Nambucca, Kempsey, Coffs Harbour, and Crescent Head, leaving many local parents unable to work.

The Parenthood is calling on all parties to address the national rural early childhood education and care shortage as a Federal Election priority. 

Ms Butler said that the lack of local childcare options is holding the entire region back.

“Local doctors, nurses and teachers are unable to work because there’s not enough care for their kids,” said Ms Butler.

“Early childhood education and care is critical for setting children up for success and allowing parents to work. Without it, children, families, essential workforces and entire communities suffer.”

The event presents an opportunity for families to share their experiences with Federal candidates, and hear what their potential solutions are for the local early learning crisis in Cowper.

“We want to give local families an opportunity to explain how this is impacting them and the types of solutions that would work best for them, and the wider community,” said Ms Butler.