AEU WELCOMES ECEC THREE DAY GUARANTEE

More of Australia’s youngest learners will get access to early education with the passing of the Albanese Government’s Three Day Guarantee of early childhood education and care.

The Australian Education Union (AEU) has today welcomed the passing of the Early Childhood Education and Care (Three Day Guarantee) Bill 2025 as a victory for families and children, as well as the early childhood teachers and educators that make it possible.

AEU Federal President Correna Haythorpe said that guaranteeing access to at least three days of care each week will benefit children in the most formative years of their lives.

"The passing of this Bill is a major win for children, families, and the teachers and educators who are at the heart of these services,” Ms Haythorpe said.

“Research consistently demonstrates that high-quality early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong learning, social development, and emotional wellbeing.”

Ms Haythorpe said that for early childhood teachers and educators, the passage of this Bill represents an important acknowledgment of the critical role they play in shaping the futures of Australia’s youngest learners and will ensure that all children will have access to consistent and quality education and care, which is vital for their development in the early years.

"AEU members have tirelessly campaigned for better provision of early childhood services in Australia and it is welcome news that the Albanese Government has recognised the importance of early education and the significant contributions that early childhood teachers and educators make to the development of every child," Ms Haythorpe said.

“Early childhood teachers and educators are central to the success of this policy, and the AEU is committed to continuing its advocacy to ensure that early childhood education and care is properly funded and that the professionals who work in this sector are fairly compensated for their essential work.

"Ensuring fair pay, improved working conditions, and professional development opportunities will be key to retaining and attracting skilled early childhood educators and teachers.

“Furthermore, we need two years of Universal Access to preschool delivered by a qualified teacher, for all children in the years before school. We call on the Albanese Government to make this commitment in the lead up to the federal election this year.”

ENDS

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