Childcare reform: just get on with it
Surely the Turnbull government, having been returned with a mandate, is prepared to de-couple the measures from family payments cuts and get its reforms passed.
Childcare is the most complex, heart-wrenching and financially vexing issue for most working families. Rising lifestyle commitments and aspirations require tough choices between staying home to care for kids and going out to earn extra.
Big problems arise when childcare centres are scarce and costly, especially in cities like Sydney.
Government support is essential, but the system can also be a significant deterrent to mothers working more hours. That undermines attempts to improve economic productivity and increase living standards across the board.
Read More: Sydney Morning Herald