Childcare subsidies hold immense potential in empowering culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women, enabling them to overcome work barriers and achieve better settlement outcomes. With a focus on affordability, these subsidies make quality early childhood education and care accessible, paving the way for increased workforce participation and community engagement.
In New South Wales (NSW), the childcare subsidy refers to the financial assistance provided by the Australian government to eligible families to help cover the costs of childcare services.
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The Australian government’s 2023-24 budget includes several measures aimed at addressing the challenges faced by Australians, including cost-of-living relief. Of particular note is the Government’s focus on improving access to affordable early childhood education and care, which can have a positive impact on women’s workforce participation and overall settlement outcomes, particularly for those from refugee backgrounds.
The Western Sydney Migrant Resource Centre is committed to supporting the settlement and integration of refugees and migrants into Australian society. The government’s focus on affordable early childhood education and care is a positive step towards addressing some of the key issues faced by women from refugee and CALD backgrounds, but we also need to address the funding challenges faced by NGOs in the settlement sector.
“The government’s commitment to improving access to affordable and high-quality early childhood education and care is a significant step towards enabling women, especially those from refugee backgrounds, to participate in the workforce and the wider community.” says Western Sydney MRC Chair Rola Hijwel.
“Increased access to childcare and subsidies can lead to greater social cohesion, as it allows women to engage with social groups and build relationships, promoting a sense of belonging and bridging the gap between different communities. This can also positively impact their mental health, wellbeing and confidence, ultimately contributing to better settlement outcomes.” said Mohan Gunesekera, Acting CEO of Western Sydney MRC.“The Government’s commitment to advancing women’s representation and participation in leadership and decision-making roles is crucial to achieving gender equality in all aspects of society. Despite progress being made, women remain underrepresented in leadership positions in Australia, especially women from CALD backgrounds”.
CALD Women in Leadership: Unlocking Potential with Childcare Subsidies
“The programs offered by Western Sydney Migrant Resource Centre, such as CALD Women in Leadership, are an excellent illustration of initiatives that have substantial positive effects but require continuous support and mentorship to assist women in their journey towards leadership roles,” said Nadia Bouchti, Community Development Officer.
The Childcare subsidy not only facilitates workforce participation but also contributes to empowering CALD women in leadership roles.
“These programs provide an invaluable platform for women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to gain the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to overcome the barriers they face and succeed in fields where they are underrepresented. The ongoing support and mentoring offered by these programs are crucial to ensuring that women have the sustained assistance they need to reach their full potential and achieve success in their chosen careers.” said Rachel Haywood, Marketing and Communications Manager.
In light of the government’s commitment to advancing women’s representation and participation in leadership and decision-making roles, Western Sydney Migrant Resource Centre recognizes the importance of programs like CALD Women in Leadership. “These programs provide an invaluable platform for women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to gain the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to overcome the barriers they face and succeed in fields where they are underrepresented,” says the Chair of Western Sydney Migrant Resource Centre, Rola Hijwel.
“The ongoing support and mentoring offered by these programs are crucial to ensuring that women have the sustained assistance they need to reach their full potential and achieve success in their chosen careers,” adds Rola.
Western Sydney Migrant Resource Centre remains committed to working towards better settlement outcomes and providing essential support services to refugees and migrants.
