Families across Wannon are continuing to bear the cost of Labor’s childcare policies, with the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics Consumer Price Index figures showing childcare costs have increased by 7.6 per cent over the past 12 months, twice the rate of headline inflation.

Federal Member for Wannon Dan Tehan said the figures were another reminder that regional families are under increasing financial pressure.

“Labor promised Australians cheaper childcare, but the reality is families are paying more than ever,” Mr Tehan said.

“Parents across Wannon are already dealing with higher electricity bills, rising grocery prices, increasing insurance costs and higher mortgages. Another sharp increase in childcare costs is the last thing working families need.”

Since Labor came to office, childcare fees have risen by 28 per cent, with the average full-time childcare place now costing more than $36,000 a year before subsidies.

Mr Tehan said affordability was only part of the challenge facing regional communities.

“In many towns across Wannon, families aren’t just worried about the cost of childcare, they’re worried about whether they can access it at all. Too many parents are struggling to find suitable places close to home, making it harder to return to work or increase their hours.

“I know many parents, carers and childcare providers across Wannon are frustrated by policies that don’t always reflect the realities of raising a family outside our major cities. Regional communities face different challenges, and our childcare system needs to recognise that.

“Regional communities need childcare policies that provide genuine choice and flexibility for families, regardless of where they live.”

Mr Tehan said despite record taxpayer spending on childcare, Labor’s approach was failing to deliver better outcomes.

“Families are paying more, taxpayers are paying more, and many parents still can’t access the type of care that best suits their family’s needs.”

“The Coalition believes every Australian family deserves affordable, high-quality childcare that gives parents real choice and helps them participate in the workforce, regardless of where they live.”

Mr Tehan announced that he has invited Senator Matt O’Sullivan, Shadow Minister for Choice in Childcare and Early Learning, to visit Wannon in August.

“Senator O’Sullivan will join me in hosting childcare roundtables to ensure local experience and input helps the Coalition to develop practical reforms that deliver greater choice, flexibility and affordability for families in our region,” he said.

Parents, carers and childcare providers can register their interest in attending here.

Mr Tehan said he would continue advocating for practical policies that improve childcare access and affordability for families across Wannon.

ENDS

Media contact: Sandie Gustus M | 0408 564 232 E | sandie.gustus@aph.gov.au