In conclusion, it is essential that we support the nation's parents and children by funding more childcare places. Only in this way can we provide the valuable learning environments that young Australians need while, at the same time, utilizing the skills of all productive members of our society. The entire national community will then be enriched economically, socially and culturally. If we fail to meet our obligations in this area, we will be sacrificing our present and future well-being merely in order to appease outdated notions of family life and to achieve short-term financial savings.