For too long, the conversation around childcare in Australia has been limited to just one option: centre-based care. But at Dream Nannies we know that every family is unique, and a “one-size-fits-all” approach doesn’t work for the modern household.
We believe that childcare shouldn’t be a political battle or a partisan issue. Whether you are a nurse working night shifts, a family with multiple young children, or simply a parent who prefers one-on-one care, you deserve access to affordable and safe options that actually fit your life.
Currently, the vast majority of federal childcare funding is locked into the centre-based system. We believe this needs to change.
We are actively campaigning for the cost of au pairs, nannies, and other in-home care to be subsidised by the Federal Government. It is time for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) to follow the child, not the building. If a family determines that a professional nanny or an au pair is the safest and most effective option for their children, they should not be financially penalised for making that choice.
We are proud to stand behind the efforts of Childcare Choice and For Parents, a voluntary group of women campaigning to put the power back in parents’ hands. Their message is simple: families should have the right to choose the childcare that works for them, and government support should follow that choice—whether it’s a centre, a nanny, or an au pair.
Addressing the “Safety” Myth
When the topic of including nannies and au pairs in the subsidy system comes up, we often hear “safety” used as a reason for push-back. However, we believe the reality is quite different.
In a large childcare centre, staff turnover is high, and parents often have no idea who is caring for their children from one day to the next. In contrast, choosing a nanny or au pair through a professional agency offers a level of transparency and security that centres simply can’t match:
- You Choose the Carer: Unlike a centre, you interview and select the specific person who will be in your home. You know exactly who is with your child.
- Vetted Professionals: A professional agency handles the heavy lifting, ensuring all background checks, Working With Children Checks (WWCC), and police clearances are current and verified.
- Consistency and Connection: Having one consistent caregiver allows for a deep bond of trust and safety that is vital for a child’s emotional development.
It’s Time for a Fairer System
Access to safe, reliable care is a necessity for working families. It’s time to move past the idea that in-home care is a “luxury” and recognise it for what it is: a professional, safe, and essential service.
We believe Australian families deserve a system that is inclusive and flexible. If you agree that it’s time for real choice, we encourage you to stay informed and join the conversation.
You can sign the For Parents Childcare Choice Petition here You can read more about the growing push for parent-led choice in this recent ABC News report.