United Voice News
Tony Abbott threatens quality for Australian children
Tony Abbott’s election “promises” on childcare are a direct threat to the future of quality childcare in Australia says LHMU, the childcare union.
“Parents should be deeply concerned by his suggestions to remove and delay quality childcare reforms long needed by Australia's children’’ says Sue Lines Assistant National Secretary of LHMU.
“In making this promise, Tony Abbott is ignoring the fact that the childcare quality reforms have already received a glowing endorsement following a mammoth consultation process with all stakeholders across the country. All facets of the childcare sector made submissions supporting the reforms sector including peak childcare organisations, providers and unions.
“The reforms also have the support of those with most exposure to the big issues in childcare - parents and childcare professionals. A staggering 6,000 letters were written by childcare professionals and parents in support of the reforms.
“The reforms have this support because of the irrefutable evidence that they are in the best interests of children: they will improve children’s development and wellbeing later in life. That’s why some community-based and private for profit childcare providers have already implemented them.
“Tony Abbott’s ‘promise’ to get rid of the childcare rating system is also a threat to children and families. This system is being rigorously road-tested and gives parents greater information about services caring for and educating their children. Why on earth would families with young people want a government to dump a system which will give them the information they have a right to know?” says Sue Lines.
