Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast (RDALC) is calling on childcare providers, families, employers and communities across the region to help shape a new national inquiry into
early childhood education and care in rural, regional and remote Australia.
The Senate Education and Employment References Committee is examining whether Australia’s early childhood education and care system is delivering accessible, high-quality, reliable and
flexible care outside metropolitan areas. Submissions close on Tuesday, 29 September 2026.
The inquiry follows the July release of RDALC’s Limestone Coast Early Childhood Education and Care Report and Toolkit – the most comprehensive assessment of the sector undertaken across
the region.
The research estimates that the Limestone Coast is currently between 260 and 490 childcare places short of demand, with the gap expected to grow as the population increases. It also
confirms that childcare is essential regional workforce infrastructure, supporting participation and helping businesses attract and retain workers in agriculture, healthcare, education, manufacturing, tourism and other key industries.
RDALC Chair Robyn Verrall said the inquiry was a timely opportunity to ensure regional experience informed national decision-making.
“Childcare is critical to the future of our region. It enables parents to participate in the workforce, helps businesses attract and retain staff, and supports vibrant and sustainable communities,” Ms Verrall said.
“We now have strong regional evidence showing where the gaps are and the impact they are having. This inquiry gives our providers, educators, families, employers and communities the
opportunity to tell decision-makers what is happening on the ground—and what would make a genuine difference.”
The Senate inquiry will consider service gaps, workforce attraction and retention, affordability and the effectiveness of the Child Care Subsidy, Commonwealth programs and investment, and
access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
RDALC’s research found that childcare needs differ considerably across the Limestone Coast. Some communities need additional infrastructure and places, while others require more flexible
and innovative service models that can remain viable with smaller or dispersed populations.
“What works in Mount Gambier will not necessarily be the right solution for a smaller community such as Robe, Beachport, Keith, Glencoe or Padthaway,” Ms Verrall said.
“Investment must recognise distance, population, workforce availability, service viability and the distinct needs of individual communities. That means new infrastructure where it is needed,
alongside flexible models that can provide sustainable access to care in smaller communities.”
“Every additional childcare place has the potential to support a child, a family, a worker, a business and, ultimately, the broader Limestone Coast economy. We have the evidence base.
Now we need that evidence translated into action.”
RDALC encourages early learning and childcare providers, educators, families and carers, employers, councils, community organisations and other interested Limestone Coast residents
to make a submission. Submissions can include personal experience, service data, workforce challenges, examples of unmet need and practical solutions.
Further information
Senate inquiry and submissions: State of Australia’s early childhood education and care system in rural, regional and remote communities
Regional evidence and resources: Limestone Coast Early Childhood Education and Care Report and Toolkit
