Measures for improving the quality, affordability and accessibility of early childhood education will go under the microscope.
The federal government has appointed academic Deborah Brennan to lead a Productivity Commission inquiry into the early childhood and care system, Education Minister Jason Clare says.
"A great early childhood education and care system pays a triple dividend - it sets children up for a great start in life, helps working families to get ahead and builds our economic prosperity by supporting workforce participation," he said.
Labor went to the election pledging increased childcare subsidies for families, which will start in July.
But the inquiry will go further in seeking solutions to workforce shortages and access and benefits for children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Professor Brennan is an emeritus professor at the Social Policy Research Centre, University of New South Wales, and an international expert in the field of early educaiton.
The inquiry will start on March 1 and provide a final report to government by June 30, 2024.
