Early Childhood Initiative

Making Australia the best place to be a child and raise a family

The Early Childhood Initiative works with leaders, researchers and public officials in the Early Childhood Development Council to continually refine and progress a new vision for a nation where every child can thrive.

In 2021 the Centre for Policy Development published the Starting Better report, which proposed the guarantee for young children and families – a new pillar of Australia’s social deal that all families can rely on.

It proposes a universal early childhood system that is high quality, equitable, affordable and accessible. The guarantee has since been referenced by numerous government stakeholders as an ideal reference point for future reforms.

The Centre for Policy Development Early Childhood Initiative continues to advise on the implementation of early childhood reforms including the expansion of paid parental leave, the design of a universal early education and care system, and historic investments in early childhood at a state and federal level.

Early Childhood Initiative highlights

Starting better cover

Starting Better is a landmark report from the Centre for Policy Development’s Early Childhood Initiative that proposes a Guarantee for Young Children and Families, and provides a roadmap to make it a reality

The Early Childhood Development Council brings public officials, experts, researchers, advocates, unions and peak bodies together to discuss the direction of Australia’s early childhood system

The Centre for Policy Development shapes Australia’s early childhood policy through advice and guidance to the Early Years Strategy, the Productivity Commission, the Employment White Paper and more

Early Childhood Initiative experts

Early Childhood Initiative recent work

Growing Together is a report from the Centre for Policy Development that outlines a long-term vision and roadmap for a reformed early childhood education and care system in Australia.
The ECEC Funding Models Consultation Paper is a joint release from CPD and the Front Project that considers the design and features of a future funding model for Australia's ECEC

Early Childhood Initiative in the media

The Centre for Policy Development (CPD) welcomes today’s announcement of a Federal Government-funded pay rise for early childhood educators.
The Federal Government has committed to funding a 15% pay increase for Australian childcare workers over the next two years.
Can we really have affordable, accessible, quality early childhood care and education, for all?
Labor will soon unveil a foundation of its cost-of-living election pitch: a proposal to introduce universal, affordable childcare.
Childcare should be free, according to Greens member for Western Victoria Sarah Mansfield.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has backed calls for a $10 childcare scheme that has been floated as a way of helping young children get a better education.

Early Childhood Initiative related initiatives

Contact the Early Childhood Initiative team

At the Centre for Policy Development, our team is at the forefront of policy research and innovation in Australia.

Whether you have an inquiry, feedback, or a collaboration idea, we’re eager to hear from you.

Use this form to get in touch and connect with our program specialists and policy experts.

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