NSW Opposition Leader Peter Debnam and Liberal Candidate for Wollondilly Sharryn Hilton said today while Morris Iemma wants NSW to stand still for three years, the NSW Liberal/Nationals will begin the task of fixing the state’s preschool on day one. 

“We need to fix NSW preschools now. Morris Iemma believes we can wait another three years before he turns his attention to the problems in NSW that need fixing,” Mr Debnam said.

“I announced a $362 million funding boost in March last year to improve affordability and increase participation, but Morris Iemma and Labor has failed to match our policy initiative – and the funds start flowing from day one,” Mr Debnam said.

“This is despite calls from preschool groups such as Children’s Choice and the Primary Principals’ Association for Labor to adopt my plan. Education experts agree early intervention is best way to provide children with the best possible future.

“My straightforward plan to fix preschools will provide:

$217 million for preschools now funded through the Department of Community Services (DoCS). This will be in addition to existing funding and will provide a much-needed funding boost to around 800 preschools and help put downward pressure on fees for parents.

$115 million to enable more 4-year olds to attend preschool at least 2 days a week. This will raise participation of NSW 4-year olds to nearer the 95% rate of other states. Communities of greatest need will be the first to receive the extension of access.

$30 million to upgrade preschool facilities in NSW with funds to be distributed in consultation with the preschool sector.

Transfer of responsibility for NSW preschools from the Department of Community Services to the education portfolio.

“Everyone agrees on the benefits of preschool for children, yet after 12 years of Labor neglect, NSW has the lowest preschool participation rates and the highest fees in the country.

“I want to turn this around and my straightforward plan will get NSW back in front by making preschool more affordable for parents and upgrading facilities. Our initiatives will reduce fees for parents, increase participation for children, and improve the quality of NSW preschools.

"After 12 years, Labor has failed to improve our preschools. If you want to fix preschools in NSW, then don’t vote Labor. The only way to fix the problems is to vote Liberal or Nationals next Saturday," Mr Debnam said.