Seminar will show way forward for young Aussies and their families

With paid parental leave confirmed by the Federal Government in last night’s budget, a twilight seminar due to be held at Southern Cross University’s Lismore campus tomorrow (Thursday May 14) will take a close look at future possibilities for early childhood services in Australia.

Entitled ‘Early Childhood Care & Education in Australia: Where to Now?’ the seminar will include a presentation from Professor Deborah Brennan, member of the Advisory Board for the University’s Centre for Children and Young People, on the steps and policies needed to ensure a bright and sustainable future for Australian children.

Southern Cross University’s Associate Professor in Early Childhood, Karen Martin, will also provide an insight into the issues around an equitable future for young Aboriginal Australian children.

Professor Anne Graham, director of the Centre for Children and Young People and acting head of the University’s School of Education, , said the Rudd government came to office with an ambitious policy agenda around the care and education of young children.

“Some of the government’s commitments have included extending pre-school education to every four year-old, improving the quality and affordability of child care and strengthening the early childhood workforce,” said Professor Graham.

“This seminar will focus on the importance of pursuing creative approaches to education and care in the early years so we can achieve a positive future for all our children, looking at the importance of both paid leave and high quality services in the policy mix.”

The seminar will run from 4.30pm to 6.30pm on Thursday, 14 May 2009 at Southern Cross University’s Lismore campus, room Z181B. The seminar is open to the public and there is no cost. RSVP to wendy.britt@scu.edu.au or phone 02 6620 3605.

Photo: Professor Anne Graham(high resolution image available on request)