Regional families are missing out, businesses are struggling and local economies are paying the price - all because of a lack of childcare in the bush.
It's why the National Farmers' Federation and its members are imploring all sides of politics to commit to the $1 billion Building Early Education Fund, ahead of the election.
The fund, recently announced by the Federal Government, will bankroll the creation of more than 160 new childcare centres in areas of most need.
Data* shows nearly a quarter (24%) of regions are classified as a "childcare desert".
NFF President David Jochinke urged all political parties to back the fund, to show they value the work and lives of rural, regional and remote Australians.
"Access to early learning and childcare is a necessity for farming families," Mr Jochinke said.
"Without it, rural parents sacrifice their farm's productivity, their family's financial security, and their own career progression.
"I've seen this struggle firsthand. Last year in my local community of Horsham, there were only 13 childcare spots available for every 100 children.
"It's no exaggeration to say a lack of childcare is holding entire communities back.
"We're calling on the nation's political parties to voice their support for the Federal Government's Building Early Education Fund, before the election.
"Building childcare centres alone won't fix this problem, but it's big major in the right direction for regional families," Mr Jochinke said.
NFF member GrainGrowers' number one election priority is making stronger grain regions, and key to that is addressing market failures in the delivery of quality early childhood education and care in regional Australia.
West Australian grain grower and GGL member Tracy Lefroy said businesses, farms and essential services are struggling to attract and retain staff, because of the limited childcare options.
"Childcare in regional Australia isn't just about parents getting a break; it's about unlocking the full potential of our workforce," Ms [AW1] Lefroy said.
"Right here in my local area of Moora, we had families driving an 80-kilometre trip, twice a day, just to access childcare.
"That's 160 kilometres, every single day.
"It's not safe, it's not sustainable, and it's holding regional communities back," she said.
GrainGrowers CEO Shona Gawel said farming families' futures depended on the Building Early Education Fund.
"This is about ensuring country kids get the same head start in life as city kids," Ms Gawel said.
"We know that quality early learning is critical for cognitive development, social skills, and school readiness.
"We need our elected politicians and candidates to commit to these vital services."
The NFF and GrainGrowers are also part of the Access for Every Child Coalition spearheaded by The Parenthood. This alliance of 73 organisations is calling on governments to ensure every single child has access to early childhood education and care, no matter where they live.
Further resources
The NFF's election platform can be found here: https://keepfarmersfarming.org.au/
GrainGrowers' election platform: https://www.graingrowers.com.au/policy/graingrowers-2025-federal-election-priorities
