Federal MP endorses report

FEDERAL Member for Barker Tony Pasin has renewed his call to address regional childcare shortages, saying the solution must include more flexible childcare models after a new report confirmed the Limestone Coast is already almost 500 childcare places short, with demand expected to continue growing.

Speaking after attending the launch of the Limestone Coast Early Childhood Education and Care Report this week, Mr Pasin said the findings reflected what he had been hearing from families, employers and childcare providers across Barker for years.

“Lack of access to childcare is holding regional communities back,” Mr Pasin said.

“It makes it harder for parents who want to return to work. It limits opportunities for young children. It makes it more difficult for local businesses to attract and retain staff.

“If we want sustainable regional communities where families choose to live and raise their children, we need to provide the services and opportunities that help them thrive. Access to quality childcare and flexible care options is a vital part of that.”

Mr Pasin said regional communities could not be expected to rely on the same childcare models that worked in metropolitan areas.

“Our regions are different. Seasonal industries, shift work, long travel distances and smaller populations all create challenges that require flexible solutions, not a one-size-fits-all approach.”

Mr Pasin said improving access to childcare had been a long-standing priority. Working alongside local communities, he had helped secure Commonwealth support for childcare projects in Kingston, Karoonda, Lameroo and Pinnaroo, and was determined to see the same progress made across the Limestone Coast.

“Every regional child deserves the same opportunities as a child growing up in the city.

“We also need a system that supports parents who want to return to work, while ensuring families who choose to care for their young children at home are not financially disadvantaged.”

Mr Pasin said governments should embrace a broader range of childcare options, including family day care, grandparent care, nannies and au pairs alongside traditional childcare centres.

“Parents know what is best for their children. Government policy should support genuine choice by recognising the different ways families care for their children.

“The Limestone Coast report provides a practical roadmap for the future and I will continue working with local communities to deliver the investment and flexible childcare solutions our region needs.”