'I was 170th on their list’. What are the health impacts for families who can’t access daycare?

Imagine living in a town where three or more families are competing for a single early learning place. This is the reality for many families in regional, rural and remote Australia. Experts call these areas "childcare deserts".

A 2024 study found about 24% of Australians live in a childcare desert. This rises to 43% of those in regional areas and more than 80% in remote areas.

When we talk about access to early education, we often – understandably – focus on its beneficial impact on children's development. But what about the impact on families with young children? And, in particular, parents' health?

In our new research, we found a lack of access to early education can also touch many parts of family health and wellbeing.