CPA - The Guardian

Childcare professionals say the Victorian Brumby government’s new childcare regulations will improve the quality of childcare for Victorian families. Among changes to be phased in is a reduction of staff-to-infant ratio in the 0 to three year-old age range from one worker to five infants to one worker to four, as well as improved minimum qualifications and training.

LHMU Childcare Union state secretary Jess Walsh congratulated the Brumby government for its leadership in this vital policy area. “These changes are great news for Victorian families and for our members,” said Ms Walsh.

“It’s wonderful to see that this government recognises the early years are such a critical time in a child’s development. All the research shows good staff to child ratios and highly trained childcare staff can really improve learning outcomes for children in the early years and throughout their lives.

“Our members pushed hard for these changes, so it’s very satisfying for them to see that their years of campaigning have paid off. Our members are hard-working, dedicated professionals and these improved staff-to-infant ratios will allow them to do their jobs better.”

The union said the changes will give childcare professionals the respect and recognition of their skills that they deserve and have been fighting for.

Under the new regulations all workers must hold a minimum Certificate Three in Childcare, a TAFE qualification. This will be phased in by 2014. At the moment, there are no minimum qualifications for Victorian childcare workers. The staff-to-infant ratios will be phased in by January 2012.

“Ultimately, these new ratios and qualification requirements will lift childcare standards across the board,” said Ms Walsh. “This is a great win for our members and for parents.

“These regulations will make it easier for childcare professionals to give Victoria’s children the high standard of care they deserve.”

The LHMU launched its BIG STEPS in Childcare campaign in August last year, calling for minimum qualifications and better ratios.

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