Jess Walsh (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Early Childhood Education) Share this | Hansard source

The Albanese government is building universal early education, pillar by pillar, and this means delivering early learning for every child, no matter their postcode or what their parents do. Quality and affordable early childhood education supports parents, particularly women, to return to work when they are ready.

In contrast, we know how those opposite feel about early education. When we delivered our historic 15 per cent pay rise, they dismissed it as 'a sugar hit'. On this side of the chamber, we know that supporting educators is good for the country. It's good for gender equality, and that is good for the country, too. That is why this 15 per cent pay rise is paying dividends for early childhood educators, for children and their families and for Australia.