United Voice News
Improved carer to child ratios in NSW great for under two year olds says LHMU
The LHMU – The childcare union welcomes today’s announcement by Linda Burney, NSW Minister for Community Services, that by 2010 the maximum number of under twos a childcare professional can legally look after in long day care will become four, a reduction from the five currently permitted in NSW.
Sue Lines, Assistant National Secretary of the LHMU says “This is great news for children in NSW. A critical indicator of quality in childcare is the number of children for whom a childcare professional is responsible. This change inevitably means improved quality of care enjoyed by children. We congratulate the NSW Government for this initiative.
“This is definitely a step in the right direction. However, international research overwhelmingly shows that the ideal ratio is one to three. We encourage the Government to work towards this in the best interests of children.
“Our members tell us that working in early childhood education and care is one of the most rewarding jobs anyone can do. However, it is demanding – emotionally, intellectually and physically – and in an environment where staff shortages are the norm, burnout is common.
“Staff turnover in NSW is 26% pa. This is a major weakness in the ability of the sector to meet children’s needs. Improving ratios is a great step in reducing this turnover.
“Parents and childcare professionals are relieved to see a concerted effort to bring this crucial service into the 21st Century. The Federal Government has committed almost $1 billion to reform the system. It is encouraging that the NSW Government is also taking initiatives to improve standards.
“Through our BIG STEPS in childcare campaign the LHMU is working with State and Federal Governments and the sector to build a system which meets children’s needs. Critical to achieving this is improved recognition of the skills of childcare professionals and improved support for further training and development of the existing workforce.
“We look forward to working with Government on all the steps necessary to improve standards in early childhood education and care,” says Sue Lines.
