Living with universal childcare has shown me Australia’s system is neither a luxury nor a right – it’s a last resort

‘Not only am I able to work without the financial burden of childcare hanging over me, I am also able to take time out for myself if I need it.’ Photograph: Lourdes Balduque/Getty Images

I had reservations about sending my two-year-old daughter to childcare (“kita” for kindertagesstätte in German) in Berlin – cultural differences being the main sticking point, but also trusting other people with her care, Covid, generalised “mum” guilt.

Nevertheless, since the start of the year, she goes there, Monday to Friday from 9am to 3pm. And it’s free, except for the €50 (A$75) we pay every month that covers food and occasional extras like an ice-cream on a hot day. In a nursery group of seven, along with two carers, they go to playgrounds, gymnastics, theatre performances and community gardens. Lunch is catered every day, and when it’s delivered, I’m told my daughter yells, “Essen!” (Food!), and runs to the door in her little felt hausschuhe (slippers).