The Early Report exists to make the early learning childcare system in Australia clearer, more transparent and easier to understand.
We publish clear, evidence-based reporting on what drives fees, quality, affordable access and children’s outcomes.
Join the briefing
Why We Exist
Early learning shapes children’s development, influences long-term educational outcomes, and supports family participation in the workforce.
Yet public debate about early learning is often driven by slogans rather than evidence. Families deserve better, and our educators deserve a fair and accurate picture of the work they do with your children every day.
Every family should be able to access safe, quality early learning that fits their budget, location and working hours – within a sector, this is sustainable and supported.
Educators should be respected as professionals, supported in their careers and retained across all provider types.
The system should be clear enough to improve, with progress that can be measured, not argued.
We measure success by outcomes that matter most:
When families can find the right place for their child/ren
When early childhood educators stay and grow in the profession.
When children start school ready to learn.
What You’ll Find Here
Real life experiences – not stereotypes
We document how different provider models, cultures, and approaches serve real families in real communities, we share their lived experiences, and the evidence and impact of early learning.
How the system really works – in plain English
We unpack policy changes, funding models and workforce trends, and what they mean for your fees and quality, explaining what drives fees, quality, access and sustainability
Practical advocacy for improvement
We identify -and highlight evidence-backed best practices and spotlight solutions that strengthen outcomes for children and long-term sector viability. These can be tested and scaled.
