Jason Clare (Blaxland, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Education) Share this | Hansard source

It's good for mums and dads, as the member for New England knows. It's good for our economy as well, because, in a skill starved economy, this will help a lot of skilled workers to get back into the workforce: according to Treasury, the equivalent of up to 37,000 extra full-time workers. Its why our cheaper childcare legislation has won such widespread support. Goodstart called it groundbreaking. Georgie Dent from The ParentHood said it would help improve financial independence and security for Australian women. The BCA said affordable child care is fundamental to increasing the workforce participation of Australian women. I also want to thank members of the crossbench. The member for Warringah described it as 'an investment in our future as a nation'. The member for Mackellar said, 'Not only is it sensible economic policy; it will provide our children with the best possible start in life.'

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