Caz Heise, the independent candidate for Cowper, has unveiled her plan to address the childcare crisis that is affecting families, the economy, and future generations in our region. 

“We need to rapidly and urgently increase the number of educators and childcare centres, and properly fund childcare  - so no child is left behind."

Caz Heise’s Plan for Childcare in Cowper

1. Expanding childcare places – increase federal funding to build more childcare centres and create additional places.

2. Making childcare more affordable – ease the financial burden on families and carers by increasing federal support for childcare.

3. Supporting and retaining early childhood educators – improve pay, working conditions, and incentives to address staffing shortages and attract more qualified educators.

4. Providing more flexible childcare options – expand family day care and out-of-hours programs to better accommodate parents' work schedules.

Statements attributable to Caz Heise 

"Our children deserve the best care, and that starts with valuing the professionals who nurture their development," she said.

"Childcare isn’t just a service; it’s a lifeline for working families and a foundation for our kids’ futures," said Caz.

Caz emphasised that the current system is forcing parents – particularly women and healthcare workers – out of the workforce and placing unnecessary stress on families and the wider community. 

"No family should have to choose between making a living and finding care for their kids. We must provide the financial support necessary to give every child a strong start." 

"I’ve seen this happen across the health sector, where many new parents - especially nurses and midwives - are forced to reduce hours or leave the workforce because they can’t access childcare. This only deepens workforce shortages and adds even more pressure to an already overstretched health system."

Caz also emphasised that funding early childcare care was a smart investment. 

“Studies show that every dollar invested in early childhood education returns nearly double in economic benefits by increasing workforce participation and reducing social welfare dependency.”

“Investing in childcare is not just about supporting families - it’s about growing our economy, strengthening our communities, and ensuring that every child gets the best start in life.”

Caz also highlighted the importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled early years services.

“The evidence is clear. Community-led First Nations programs are highly effective in improving education outcomes, supporting family wellbeing, and closing the gap in early childhood education.”

Highlighting the urgent need for reform, Caz has today released an analysis showing that Cowper is one of the most underserviced regions for childcare in Australia. 

• Port Macquarie Surrounds – 0.144 places per child

• Kempsey Surrounds – 0.162 places per child

• South West Rocks – 0.227 places per child

• Nambucca Heads Surrounds – 0.086 places per child

• Macksville – 0.281 places per child

• Nambucca Heads – 0.250 places per child

• Urunga – 0.300 places per child

• Bellingen – 0.313 places per child

• Dorrigo – 0.259 places per child

• Korora - Emerald Beach – 0.343 places per child

Source - Victoria University

“No area in Cowper has enough places to meet demand. In many parts of the electorate, there are seven children for every one childcare spot. This simply isn’t good enough.

“These statistics paint a stark picture: parents in Cowper are being forced out of the workforce or left struggling to balance work and care, while children miss out on crucial early learning opportunities.

“This data shows what parents across the region have been telling me - it is simply impossible to get childcare,” said Caz.