Nationals Member for Myall Lakes Tanya Thompson is calling on the Minns Labor Government to urgently review its new community preschool funding model, warning local services could face significant funding cuts and families could be asked to pay more.
Mrs Thompson met last week with representatives from community preschools across the electorate, who raised serious concerns about the impact on their educators, programs, and affordable access for families.
"While the government is talking about increased investment, our local community preschools are warning they could lose hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding," Mrs Thompson said.
"These wonderful not-for-profit preschools have served our communities for generations, giving our children the very best start in life.
"I have listened to our local directors, and I will be standing alongside them to fight for a funding model that supports the work they do."
As one local example, Taree & District Preschool projects a total funding decrease of between $450,000 and $600,000 over the next two years.
"Directors are facing difficult decisions about staffing, learning programs and support for children with disability and additional needs. These are real consequences for local children and families."
Mrs Thompson is encouraging the community to get behind the Wear Pink on Wednesdays campaign.
"I'm asking everyone to wear something pink each Wednesday and stand with our wonderful preschool teachers, educators and families.
"The Minns Government needs to listen to our local directors, urgently review this funding model and ensure our community preschools aren't left worse off."
