Tasmania’s child care facilities are raising red flags, according to a report released by the Federal Government today.
The report has revealed the state has recorded the highest number of serious incidents at early childhood education and care facilities, with 394 incidents occurring in the year ending June 30th.
Of these incidents, 65 required an ambulance and 50 involved children being locked in or out or going missing.
The rate of serious incidents per 100 approved facilities was the highest of any state or territory at 168.4, compared to the average of 123.8.
Additionally, only 86.4% of Tasmania’s approved facilities met or exceeded the national quality standards in education, compared to the national average of 91%.
In terms of funding, both the federal and state governments are spending significantly less per child on ECEC services in Tasmania, with the amount spent per child in 2022 being $6699 compared to the national average of $8706.
The federal government is also spending less per child in Tasmania than in any other state or territory, at $1806 compared to the national average of $2500.
Despite these challenges, there is one bright spot for Tasmania – cost.
The median weekly price of 50 hours of child care in the state was $527, much lower than the national average.
Elsewhere, the Northern Territory had the highest amount spent per child at $13018, while Victoria spent nearly 50% more per child than the national average at $9361.
The most expensive place for childcare was the Australian Capital Territory, where 50 hours of childcare cost $643.
