Representatives of the Kurri Kurri Early Connections network had the chance to share their ideas for government policy with Labor’s Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education, Amanda Rishworth, last week.
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A South Australian Labor MP, Ms Rishworth was invited by Member for Paterson, Meryl Swanson, to meet with members of the network in Kurri Kurri on Thursday.
Kurri Kurri Early Connections comprises members from local primary schools, preschools and childcare centres and agencies that provide services and support to families with children aged zero to eight.
The network operates to promote parent links with early childhood services, and transition to school.
Ms Swanson said the meeting was an invaluable opportunity.
“Every time I meet with the Kurri Kurri Early Connections group I’m struck by their passion for giving our children the very best start in life and the deep level of professional expertise that shapes their every idea,” she said.
“And it’s simply vital that regional areas such as ours are part of the landscape at this time. Education doesn’t stop at the city limits of Melbourne or Sydney, and the challenges faced by regional and rural children are different.”
Ms Rishworth raised concerns about the upcoming changes to the childcare subsidy – which will come into effect on July 2, with payments based on combined family income, parents’ activity level, and the type of child care service.
She said the government should be focused on education of children, not how many hours a week their parents work.
“Our focus is on the most vulnerable children, and seeing early education as a critical part of a child’s development,” she said.
Ms Rishworth will stay in contact with the Kurri Kurri group as the changes unfold.
