5 Percent for Under 5s
We’re calling on the government to commit to ‘5 percent for under 5s’ in the 2026 budget.
5 Percent for Under 5s
We’re calling on the government to commit to ‘5 percent for under 5s’ in the 2026 budget.
That’s the gap between what government has put into early childhood education and inflation since 2019. And, in reality, its less than half the difference we’ve seen due to inflationary effects on government revenue since 2019. That’s despite early childhood education being one of the best things we can give our young people.
As a result, the future of quality early childhood education is increasingly at risk. More centres are closing. More are having to increase prices for parents, at a time when many whānau are already struggling already.
A 5% increase in the 2026 budget would close the gap.
How can you help?
Above all else, please talk to your whānau about the situation. It’s important that they understand that government funding hasn’t kept up with inflation.
Other ideas for your involvement include:
Asking your local Member(s) of Parliament, Mayor, Local Councillors, to come and visit your centre, to see what you are doing, and talk to them about the funding situation. Ask them how they can help
Invite your local community paper in to see what you do – and tell them about the benefits you give to young people.
Tell us how your centres are going – what’s working for you, but also where the pressures are. If things don’t change – what does that mean for your future? We can help you tell that story, so that politicians understand the implications if we don’t get that 5% back.
Become a member
Membership with the Early Childhood Council unlocks a range of benefits for your service and its staff. Join more than 1,300 member centres in New Zealand and become a member today.
Phone: 0800 742 742
Email: admin@ecc.org.nz
Floor 1, Petherick Tower,
38 Waring Taylor Street, Wellington
PO Box 5649, Wellington 6140,
New Zealand