We are thrilled to announce the release of our latest report, IMPACTFUL: The negative impacts of inaccessible early learning on regional, rural and remote communities, which delves into the urgent need for accessible and affordable early childhood education and care (ECEC) in regional, rural and remote Australia.
IMPACTFUL is the culmination of months of research and on-the-ground engagement with regional, rural and remote communities, highlighting the significant gaps in ECEC services and their widespread effects on children, families, and communities.
IMPACTFUL draws on the experiences of 162 parents, carers, educators and community leaders, as well as insights from an online poll of 855 individuals and a comprehensive review of relevant literature. The findings are clear: the lack of ECEC services is severely impacting the social and economic fabric of these regions, limiting opportunities for children, placing financial strain on families and weakening liveability in the regions.This report explores the numerous impacts lack of ECEC has on whole communities. It is a testament to their stories and a call to action for much-needed change.
Every child, no matter where they live, deserves access to quality early childhood education and care. Ensuring this access is not just beneficial for families - it strengthens communities and boosts the economy by enabling parents to work and participate in society. We hope this report will be a catalyst for change, driving the urgent reforms needed to close the ECEC gap in regional, rural and remote Australia.
Read the report here.
We are still collecting regional, rural and remote families' experiences with accessing ECEC. To submit your story, please email Campaign Director Maddy Butler at [email protected]