Early Learning Matters Week Wrap-Up Event—Address

Early Childhood Australia recently hosted the Early Learning Matters Week 2025 Wrap-Up Event at Parliament House, Canberra. Among the attendees were parliamentarians, early childhood educators, advocates, and sector leaders from across Australia. The event provided an opportunity to celebrate early childhood education, reflect on the sector’s achievements, and discuss the challenges that remain in providing high-quality, accessible learning for every child.

Senator Steph Hodgins-May, the Australian Greens Spokesperson for Early Childhood Education and a Senator for Victoria, delivered a prepared address to attendees. Her speech emphasized the critical importance of early learning and the urgent need for reforms to support both children and educators across the country.

A Personal Perspective

As a parent of two young children, Senator Hodgins-May spoke candidly about the vital role early childhood education plays in family life. She highlighted how access to a local council-run centre and its team of dedicated educators has made a significant difference in her family’s life, providing her children with a safe, stimulating, and supportive environment while enabling her and her partner to pursue their careers.

However, she also pointed out that not all families enjoy the same level of access. Many children and families still face barriers to affordable, high-quality early education, and these inequities make it harder for all children to get a strong start in life. According to the Senator, Early Learning Matters Week 2025 is more important than ever, as it draws attention to these gaps and the need for systemic improvements.

Challenges in the Early Childhood Sector

Despite the dedication and professionalism of early childhood educators across Australia, Senator Hodgins-May noted that challenges remain in consistently delivering safe, high-quality care for all children. Recent reports have highlighted areas where improvements are needed, including staff support, safety standards, and access to affordable early learning programs.

Acknowledging recent initiatives aimed at improving safety, she emphasized that these are only the beginning. More action is required to ensure that every child experiences a high-quality, safe, and supportive early learning environment, regardless of where they live or their family circumstances.

Driving Change Through Inquiry

The Greens have taken active steps to address these challenges by initiating a Senate Inquiry into the quality and safety of Australia’s childcare system. Senator Hodgins-May described the inquiry as a critical opportunity for educators, families, and the sector as a whole to contribute their experiences and insights directly to Parliament.

“The voices of those who work in and rely on early childhood education are vital in shaping reforms that work,” she said. Contributions to the inquiry will guide policy decisions and help establish stronger national oversight, ensuring that improvements benefit every child and educator across the country.

Advocating for National Oversight

Beyond the inquiry, Senator Hodgins-May highlighted the Greens’ longstanding call for an independent national Early Childhood Education and Care Commission. Such a body would oversee the transition toward a universal, high-quality early learning system, working alongside states and territories to enforce consistent quality standards nationwide.

She stressed that this is a real opportunity to build a system that is truly universal and high-quality, giving all children access to early education that nurtures their growth, curiosity, and potential. Collaboration between the Greens, government, and the sector is essential to achieving these reforms.

Supporting Educators and Families

The Senator’s address also emphasized the importance of supporting educators. Early childhood professionals are at the heart of every child’s learning journey, and their work must be valued, recognized, and adequately resourced. High-quality early education depends not just on facilities and programs, but also on well-supported, skilled, and motivated educators.

By advocating for a strong national framework, the Greens aim to ensure that educators are empowered, families have access to affordable care, and children receive the learning opportunities they deserve.

A Call to Action

Senator Hodgins-May concluded by thanking the sector for its tireless work, advocacy, and commitment to early learning. She urged attendees to engage with the Senate Inquiry, share their experiences, and continue pushing for reforms that strengthen the system.

“This is a moment to build a future where every child can thrive, every educator is supported, and high-quality early childhood education is a reality for all Australians,” she said. Her message reinforced that early learning is not just about preparing children for school—it is about creating a foundation for life, opportunity, and equality.
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