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Despite a surge of policy reforms and Australian government investment in early childhood education and care (ECEC), little is known in Australia about how local ECEC markets function and how low-income families make decisions about the use or non-use of childcare services. 

Families at the Centre provides evidence for policy making and service provision that encourages childcare use by low-income families. The direct involvement of childcare providers in the research strengthens its relevance and impact.  

This research places Australia at the forefront of international research on local childcare markets. The resulting improvements in ECEC policy and services will generate substantial economic and social benefits.