Better early learning key for SA inquiry
Building a new system to provide better early education and care for young South Australians is the key issue for a royal commission into the sector, former prime minister Julia Gillard says.
Ms Gillard is heading the inquiry that was a major election commitment of the new state Labor government.
She opened its first formal hearing on Monday involving members of an expert advisory panel.
"We are here to really answer a how question which is how are we going to build a better early childhood education and care system in South Australia," Ms Gillard said in brief opening remarks.
"In particular, how are we going to ensure universal access to three-year-olds to early learning."
The royal commission was established to examine the support available for families in the first 1000 days of a child's life.
It will also look at how SA can deliver universal preschool by 2026, provide better access to out-of-school hours care and increase workforce participation through improved access to child care.
Since Ms Gillard's appointment in October, it has taken more than 230 responses from parents, educators and other community members.
She is due to present an interim report to the government next April.
