Better child care outcomes for student parents

Joint Media Release with Senator the Hon. Joe Ludwig, Minister for Human Services.

The Rudd Government is honouring its election commitments, delivering $23.9 million over four years to increase child care assistance to parents who are studying at university or TAFE.

The Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, and the Minister for Human Services, Joe Ludwig, today announced the extension of Jobs Education and Training (JET) Child Care Fee Assistance from one to two years.

JET Child Care Fee Assistance provides parents with flexible and low cost child care support while they undertake approved study, training or job search activities.

From 1 July, this assistance will be extended to two years for full-time study, or longer if studying part-time, regardless of the length of the course.

Eligible parents will only pay 10 cents an hour for approved child care, with the Government covering the remainder of fees charged by the provider.

The Rudd Government’s Education Revolution offers a new approach by supporting parents to access education and training, thereby enabling their participation in the workforce.

Senator Ludwig said the Family Assistance Office will write to current families receiving JET Child Care Fee Assistance to inform them of the changes.

Around 5 000 parents and principal carers will benefit from this change almost immediately, and will need to contact the Family Assistance Office before they complete their first year of study.

Another 7 000 parents are expected to start studying over the next four years as a direct result of this measure.

The Government’s enhanced support will mean stronger employment options for parents, reduced reliance on welfare payments and a better life for themselves and their families.

More information about the changes to JET Child Care Fee Assistance is available online at www.familyassist.gov.auor by calling 13 6150.