NSW announces $5bn childcare boost in state budget plan trumpeted as ‘once in a generation’

‘This reform will transform childcare in NSW,’ Matt Kean said. ‘Good women’s policy is also good economic policy for everyone.’ Photograph: Dean Lewins/AAP

Tens of thousands of childcare spots will be made available in New South Wales as part of a $5bn boost to the sector, as female participation in the workforce shapes up to be one of the state government’s key budget focuses.

The premier, Dominic Perrottet, described the policy as a “once-in-a-generation reform”.