Coming together to support quality, accessible outside school hours care for Australian families.

Industry leaders from across the outside school hours care (OSHC) sector have written to federal and state government representatives to share concerns and contribute to ongoing discussions about maintaining access to quality, affordable outside school hours care for children and families.

The joint letter was submitted by Melinda Crole, President of OSHCA and CEO of JAG Australia, and Kylie Brannelly, Chief Executive Officer of NOSHSA, on behalf of industry bodies and providers from across the country.

Why this matter for families in NSW and Victoria

We know that for many families, outside school hours care is an essential part of daily life.

It gives children opportunities to play, build friendships, explore their interests and strengthen their connection to school and community. It also provides families with the flexibility to participate in work, study and other commitments, knowing their children are in a safe and supportive environment.

A sector-wide conversation on the future of OSHC/OOSH

The organisations supporting the letter strongly support robust regulation and high standards for children.

The advocacy seeks to encourage further discussion about how regulatory changes may affect families, schools and local services. The letter reflects a shared commitment to:

• Maintaining access to quality OSHC services for children and families

• Ensuring governments understand the impact of the changes on outside school hours care services, an important part of the early childhood education and care system

• Supporting strong and vibrant school communities

• Protecting affordability and accessibility for families in Out of school hours services

• Ensuring high-quality care remains available across metropolitan, regional and rural Australia

• Working collaboratively with governments and regulators to support positive outcomes for children

JAG supports this collaborative effort, which brings together industry bodies and providers committed to maintaining access to high-quality outside school hours care for children, families and communities across Australia.

The future of outside school hours care depends on collaboration between governments, regulators, schools and providers. Through initiatives such as this joint letter, sector leaders are seeking to contribute constructively to conversations about how Australia can continue to provide high-quality, accessible and sustainable care for children and families. This includes recognising the unique operating model of OSHC, which differs significantly from long day care services.

Read the letter to learn more

Quality outside school hours care plays an important role in supporting children, families and communities. Read the joint letter to learn more about the sector's perspective and the opportunities being discussed with government. [view PDF]