Affordability of ECE

Implementation of the Early Childhood Education Strategic Plan, and the integration of the education agency Early Childhood Development, means the Ministry of Education is playing a stronger leadership role and working more closely with the sector.  The Ministry’s role has increased in scope, moving from largely a regulatory and policy development focus to one that is more active and supportive at the delivery end.

In Budget 2004 significant changes were made to the way ECE is funded and also to the childcare subsidy which helps low-income families to meet the cost of ECE. 

The key affordability measure in the new ECE funding system is that from 1 July 2007 three and four year olds in teacher-led community-based ECE services will receive up to 20 hours free ECE per week.  For more information on the new ECE funding system contact: resourcing@minedu.govt.nz

Both the per hour rates and income thresholds of the childcare subsidy were significantly increased from October 2004.  This means more families receive more support to access ECE.  For more information on the changes to the childcare subsidy contact 0800 774 004.