LOCAL families across Blair are set to benefit from a major overhaul of early childhood education, with the 3 Day Guarantee coming into effect under the Federal Government.
The reform replaces the former Coalition Government’s Activity Test, which limited access to subsidised early learning based on parents’ work or study hours – a system widely criticised for excluding children who stood to gain the most from early education.
Under the new guarantee, every child will be eligible for three days of subsidised early learning each week, regardless of their parents’ employment status.
First Nations families will be eligible for five days a week of subsidised early learning, recognising the vital role early education plays in closing long-standing gaps in opportunity.
For Raceview mum Siobhan Micheals, the change removes a barrier that had shaped her family’s choices for years.
“I only work casually, so under the old system my daughter was limited to one day a week,” Ms Micheals said.
“That made it really hard for her to settle and build friendships. Knowing she can now go three days no matter what my roster looks like is such a relief.”
In Springfield Lakes, father of two Domonic Kefi said the reform would help his family manage both finances and work flexibility.
“My wife and I juggle shifts just to meet the activity test,” he said.
“This gives us breathing space. It’s not just about work – it’s about giving our kids consistency and confidence before they start school.”
The Federal Government is investing around $430 million over four years to deliver the 3 Day Guarantee, alongside a further $1 billion through the Building Early Education Fund to build or expand early learning services in areas of need, including fast-growing outer suburban and regional communities like Blair.
The policy follows a 15 per cent pay rise for early childhood educators, forming part of the Government’s broader plan to create a high-quality, universal early childhood education and care system.
Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said the reform would be a game-changer for local families.
“Labor’s cheaper childcare policy has already helped around 9000 families in Blair, and this latest reform builds on that to make the system fairer,” Mr Neumann said.
“I expect up to 1000 more local families will now become eligible for three days of subsidised early learning, which will make a real difference to household budgets and children’s development.”
Mr Neumann said the reforms reflected commitments made to the Blair community ahead of the election.
“Whether it’s cheaper childcare, cheaper medicines or increased support for students and carers, we are delivering more help and more choice for those who need it most,” he said.
