Early childhood education and care
Final report is available
- Why the inquiry?
- Call for submissions
- Draft report
- Final report
What we’ve been asked to look at
This inquiry examined the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector, including centre-based day care, preschools, family day care, outside school hours care and in home care. The Commission considered cost and availability barriers that affect access to ECEC services, and ways to support better outcomes for children and families.
Read the Terms of Reference Media releaseCall for submissions
The Commission issued a call for submissions on 14 March 2023.
Submission writers were encouraged to identify issues and suggest ways forward. The Commission appreciates evidence in support of any views, such as data, research reports and case studies.
Initial submissions were due by 19 May 2023.
Draft report release
The Commission sought further information and feedback following the release of the draft report.
The draft report set out the Commission’s draft findings and recommendations to address the barriers that affect access to early childhood education and care (ECEC) services and support better outcomes for children and families.
Final submissions were due by 14 February 2024.
Final report to Government and release
This inquiry report outlines what a universal ECEC system would look like, and the significant reforms necessary to achieve it. These reforms tackle issues that affect ECEC availability, inclusion, affordability, quality and equity. The report's recommendations aim to remove barriers to ECEC access and support better outcomes for children and families.
The final inquiry report was handed to the Australian Government on 28 June 2024 and released on 18 September 2024.
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