RDASNA CEO Olivia West outlined the importance of the survey in advocacy and policy development. Photo: RDASNA.
Early childhood education and care professionals, educators, providers and stakeholders are being urged to complete an Early Childhood Education and Care Survey to help set priorities for the future.
Regional Development Australia Southern NSW & ACT (RDASNA) is an Australian Government initiative advocating for the regions, especially in the field of investment, employment and innovation.
Its annual survey creates an up-to-date snapshot of challenges and opportunities facing Southern NSW and the ACT, providing important evidence as a basis for future planning, advocacy and policy development.
Last year’s survey informed early childhood education and care analysis included in the State of the Workforce: Southern NSW & ACT report, with findings used to support regional planning, government submissions and advocacy regarding improved workforce and service outcomes.
RDASNA chief executive officer Olivia West said understanding the experiences of educators within the sector was critical to securing regional access to quality early childhood care and education.
“Access to early childhood education and care is fundamental to strong regional communities. It supports children’s development, enables workforce participation and helps attract and retain families in our region,” Ms West said.
“The 2025 survey provided valuable insights into workforce shortages, service availability and the pressures being experienced across the sector. This year’s survey will help us understand what has changed over the past 12 months and identify where further action is needed.
“The stronger our regional evidence base, the stronger our advocacy becomes. Every survey response helps ensure the experiences of our communities are reflected in future government planning, investment and policy decisions.”
The survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete and is open until Sunday 13 September. The survey is available online.
