Early Years Strategy – giving all kids the start they deserve

In February, our Executive Director Travers McLeod travelled to Canberra to take part in the Federal Government’s Early Years Summit.

This gave BSL a seat at the table to inform the new national Early Years Strategy that – if done right – will completely reshape how we approach early childhood services in Australia.

Travers held constructive meetings during this visit and spoke as part of the Summit’s final panel session on what must be prioritised to ensure the new Early Years Strategy is a success.

BSL is advocating for an integrated approach to early childhood development and education – beginning at birth and spanning both formal early childhood services and home-based support. Together these can counter family disadvantage, stop at-risk children and families from falling through the gaps and ensure all children have the best possible start in life.

Reflecting on the Summit, it’s heartening to see governments across Australia taking this issue so seriously and promising real, tangible change. The early years must be a national reform priority because a better early childhood system is the launchpad for better lives and for Australia’s future prosperity.

BSL will continue to actively participate in Early Years Strategy conversations throughout 2023 to ensure Australia’s approach to early years development is world-leading and life-changing.