We have the worst childcare ratios in Australia!

Victoria's childcare regulations are under review. These regulations underpin the standard of childcare our children receive. Right now, Victoria's regulations ask the impossible of childcare professionals.

Our staff to child ratios are 1:5 for children under three and 1:15 for children three years and over. There is no guaranteed program preparation time. There are no minimum qualifications to work in the sector.

The research shows our children need more one on one attention and plans that meet their individual social and developmental needs. Victoria's childcare professionals know that the current regulations are not working for our children.

That's why we're asking for:

• Higher staff to child ratios. 1:3 for children under two, 1:5 for two to three year olds, and 1:8 for threes years and over.
• More weekly planning time. Four hours for room leaders and one hour forassistants.
• Increased training. Minimum qualifications requirement of TAFE Certificate III.

We want these changes to be phased in - so they are affordable and achievable. We're calling on the Bracks government to make a real, lasting difference to the children and parents of Victoria.

ACT NOW FOR BETTER CHILDCARE - SEND A MESSAGE TO THE GOVERNMENT

more info: www.lhmu.org.au/lhmu/campaigns/Every_Child_Counts | U-Tube Movie