Formal childcare services in North Queensland, Australia: an empirical assessment

Abstract

This research is a step towards integrating both demand and supply assessment for childcare. Specifically, it focuses on a set of research questions that have been highlighted as salient by the childcare industry in Townsville, Australia. A survey among households in Townsville revealed that finding a childcare centre at the right location drives "formal" childcare usage. Non-usage is primarily related to respondents not getting care for the hours they need, and being unable to find care at short notice. It is shown that a geographical area in Townsville, Murray, would be the ideal location for a new childcare facility. The results of this research should be of interest to practitioners and policy makers in childcare.