Australia plans $1 billion investment in early education to tackle rural childcare shortages.

The Albanese Labor government in Australia proposes a $1 billion investment in early education to expand access in regional areas, aiming to build new centers and support not-for-profit providers. This includes a 15% pay rise for early educators and a Three-Day Guarantee, which will ensure subsidized early education for three days a week starting in 2026. The initiative addresses childcare shortages in rural areas, where about 680,000 people live in "childcare deserts."

December 14, 2024
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