Free universal childcare is one of AGEC’s Key Priorities for this Federal Election.
Free universal childcare will increase women’s workforce participation, create a more equal distribution of caring responsibilities between men and women, and produce a net positive benefit to the economy.
The Grattan Institute estimates a universal subsidy set at 95% of childcare costs would cost about $12B and boost GDP by $27B a year.
To further support increased women’s workforce participation and men’s use of paid parental leave and share of unpaid caring responsibilities, the Government Paid Parental Leave scheme should increase from 18 to 26 weeks on a “use it or lose it” basis, eliminating the gendered distinction between primary and secondary caregiver.
Read more to learn why free universal childcare
is key to gender equality. 
