Seven children waiting for each childcare place in the Gascoyne, new data shows

The Gascoyne is among the regions with the most limited access to childcare in the State, according to new research. Released by the Mitchell Institute last week, the data revealed almost seven children are vying for each childcare place in the Gascoyne. Across the Mid West, 95.8 per cent of the population is living in a “childcare desert” — an area described as having a childcare demand which exceeds available placements. The new data suggests these “deserts” are disproportionately located in rural and regional areas and where there are higher proportions of children and families on lower incomes or below the poverty line. Children’s health charity Royal Far West chief executive Jacqui Emery said the research suggests Gascoyne families are missing out on access to early learning services. “Every child and family in Gascoyne lives in a childcare desert. In comparison only 28 per cent of Australians living in metropolitan areas are in childcare deserts,” she said. “While the large numbers of regional children missing out on early learning may not be a surprise, it is deeply disappointing, and we know it could have lifelong impacts.”