Response to contribute to the development of a national policy roadmap for shaping the future of early childhood education and care.
It is important that a national strategy encompasses the social determinants of health and wellbeing to allow young children to thrive and grow in ways that meet their individual needs.
Independent Schools Australia (ISA) supports the Australian Government’s commitment to break down service silos in the early years and encourage stakeholder collaboration, development of stronger strategic relationships and a holistic approach to supporting young children and their families.
ISA suggests the following key policy priorities to create healthy foundations for all Australian children:
- a child-centred approach to policy decision making
- a coordinated interagency approach to support young children from birth to five years
- equitable opportunities and access to quality early childhood education and care services, especially in regional and remote areas
- address workforce issues including the shortage of qualified staff and staff retention strategies, especially in regional and remote areas
- targeted support for vulnerable and disadvantaged communities
- culturally responsive strategies
- focus on health and wellbeing with access to early intervention for young children
- sharing of data as appropriate to inform strategy and improve outcomes.