United Voice News
Childcare members making Big Steps forward
Childcare members made their voice heard at a recent meeting with government about major improvements to childcare regulations.
Last year, LHMU members sent a powerful message to Victorian government at our Big Steps in Childcare campaign launch at State Parliament.
Members called for respect and recognition for their professional skills, better staff to child ratios and access to appropriate training.
Department of Education & Early Childhood Development manager Connie Forbes came to the union office on March 5 after members requested a special meeting to give their feedback on the new regulations.
The verdict? Members see improvements in the government’s new changes, but also room for substantial reform into the future.
Members welcomed improved staff-to-child ratios for 0 to 3-year-olds and a minimum Certificate III in Childcare qualification for all workers, as well as the recognition of prior learning, so staff already working in the sector can have their skills and experienced recognised.
‘These changes will help raise the kudos of the field. People are acknowledging this is a professional field. We do more than care for children, we educate and develop them,’ said member Felicity Nabbs.
Members know we can only win professional recognition – and pay – with minimum mandatory qualifications.
Yet members still feel pushed to the limit by low staffing levels for over 3's, a lack of regulation about programming time, and insufficient funding to raise pay.
‘I’m happy to see Victoria is at the same level as the rest of Australia but we’re still not up to standard,’ member Kylie Seadon said.
‘We could be doing more for our kids.’
Your union is putting together a submission about the draft regulations.
The new legislation will take effect in May this year.
