Bill Debate · Second Reading
House of Representatives · Thursday 20 August 2026
Continued from Wednesday 12 August 2026.
Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia
The debate concerned the extension of the worker retention payment for early childhood education and care workers by two years, funded by an additional $3.6 billion. The government argued the measure was essential to maintain workforce stability, keep fees affordable for families, and strengthen safety standards. The opposition supported the extension to avoid a funding cliff but criticised the lack of a long-term plan and eligibility rules that excluded independent contractors. The bill was supported by government members who highlighted improved workforce retention and reduced vacancies.
Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.
Continued the debate
Bell supported the bill to prevent a sudden funding cliff in November that would destabilise providers and families. However, she argued the government had failed to provide a sustainable long-term workforce plan, merely extending a temporary measure. Bell criticised the exclusion of independent contractors working in family day care and in-home care from the payment. Bell also raised concerns about rising childcare costs and the need for clearer safety provisions.
Opposition response
Bell argued that while the coalition supported better pay and retention, the bill lacked a permanent solution to workforce uncertainty. Bell highlighted that the government could not provide data on how many newly included family day care workers would actually qualify due to employment status restrictions. Bell called for the removal of barriers for independent contractors and demanded a credible long-term plan for the sector.
Templeman argued the extension was vital for maintaining workforce stability and keeping fees affordable for families. Templeman cited statistics showing an increase of 20,000 educators and a reduction in job vacancies since the original payment was introduced. Templeman stated the bill would save the average family approximately $1,500 over two years and link funding to safety standards.
Byrnes supported the bill as a commitment to fair pay and safer services for children. Byrnes emphasised that staff stability was critical for identifying risks and ensuring child safety. Byrnes noted that around 900 workers in her electorate were receiving the payment across 75 local services.