The Federal Government has tabled proposed legislation to overhaul the childcare payment in Parliament, which sets out the changes announced in May to streamline existing subsidies into one means-tested payment.
From July 2017 parents will receive the so-called Child Care Subsidy based on their income.
Low-income earners making less than $65,000, will receive a subsidy covering 85 per cent of their child care costs but this will scale down to 50 per cent for average families earning $170,000.
As well, the cap on the annual amount families can receive will increase from $7,500 to $10,000 per child and the limit will only apply to families earning more than $185,000.
Vocational Education Minister Luke Hartsuyker introduced the bill into Parliament and told members the changes will provide greater choice for parents by delivering a simpler and more affordable system.
"It is a fair approach that provides the greatest support to those who depend upon it in order to work or work more hours," Mr Hartsuyker said.
"The Government's new child care package supports parents as they balance work and family responsibilities whilst protecting the most vulnerable and continuing to ensure a high quality learning experience in our child care centres."
Earlier this week the Government announced the child care subsidy will be scaled back for high-income earners.
Families earning more than $250,000 will have their subsidies gradually taper down from 50 per cent of child care costs to 20 per cent for families earning $340,000.
Opposition wants Senate inquiry
The bill also includes an activity test parents will have to satisfy to qualify for subsidised child care.
Under the changes parents will have to be working, studying or volunteering for at least eight hours a fortnight to receive Government-funded support.
As previously announced, grandparent carers will be exempt from the activity test and there will be a safety net for low income earners who do not meet the test.
They will also be able to access 12 hours a week of subsidised care, but that is down from 24 hours a week available under the current system.
The Opposition has accused the Government of "disastrous mismanagement" of the childcare package.
Labor's Early Childhood spokeswoman Kate Ellis said the Government needed to say how many families would be worse off and how many children would be forced out of the childcare system.
"There remain too many unanswered questions about this childcare package," Ms Ellis said.
"Labor will today be ensuring that this package goes to a full Senate committee for examination as to the impacts on Australian families.
"This is a Government who is spending some $3 billion to make child care more expensive for tens of thousands of Australian families."
No comments:
Post a Comment