22 MarNational Vision for Early Childhood Education and Care
The National Vision for Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) is a new effort by the National Cabinet to support ECEC and recognise its importance in a child’s developmental years. The draft is a long-term vision to a create a high functioning ECEC sector that benefits the Australian economy and reduces disadvantage among children.
The National Vision will include all forms of ECEC including preschool, long day care, family day care and out of school hours care. The National Vision acknowledges early learning as a right for all children and families and wants to ensure that the government is working in conjunction with the sector to:
- support young children’s educational and development outcomes
- encourage parents’ workforce participation
- grow a strong and sustainable workforce.
The draft for the National Vision is underpinned by four main principles: equity, affordability, quality and accessibility.
On Wednesday, 22 March ELAA attended a peak body consultation to discuss our view on the National Vision and provide feedback on where it can be strengthened. ELAA advocated for the importance of aspiration, and strength-based, child centred language. In addition, attendees agreed the document would benefit from referencing existing national frameworks, and enhancing the commitment to the inclusion of a diverse range of children, including children with disabilities.
The Australian Government would like input from communities and members within ECEC sector to create a shared vision. Feedback on the draft for the National Vision is being collected between the 17 March and 7 April 2023.
Ensure your input is heard and complete the survey by clicking HERE.
