Concerns over childcare safety are raising questions about gender equality in Australia. Many parents, like Jacinda, are grappling with the emotional toll of sending their children to daycare amid reports of abuse and neglect in the childcare system.

Jacinda, who experienced postpartum depression, described her early parenting days as overwhelming. "It can feel like you're drowning while you're holding your whole world in your arms," she said. Sleep-deprived and struggling, she turned to childcare earlier than planned to return to her marketing career. In Sydney, where living costs are high, childcare is essential for many families. Currently, about 1.5 million children attend approved childcare services, with attendance rates for children aged 0-5 rising from 42% in 2015 to 50.4% in 2024.

Despite the necessity of childcare, many parents face anxiety when leaving their children in the care of strangers. Reports of abuse in the $22 billion industry have made the decision to send children to daycare even more difficult. The trauma experienced by families is significant, as they weigh their child's safety against their own income and well-being. Experts warn that the burden of childcare often falls on women, potentially undermining gender equality.

Jacinda's son eventually adjusted to daycare, benefiting from educational experiences she could not provide at home. However, after the birth of her daughter, Jacinda is reconsidering sending her to daycare due to safety concerns. "We've felt more anxious about sending [our daughter] with all the news coverage we've been seeing about day care," she said. This has led her to contemplate drastic changes, including sacrificing her career to stay home full-time.

The childcare industry raises questions of privilege regarding availability, affordability, and quality. Many families rely on dual incomes to manage living costs, while single parents often have no choice but to work. Reports indicate a rising number of children going missing from childcare, with a 49% increase in three years. Additionally, the quality of care varies significantly between for-profit and not-for-profit centers, with the latter generally providing higher standards.

When childcare fails, women often leave the workforce. Katherine Berney, executive director of the Working with Women Alliance, emphasizes that when parents cannot trust the childcare system, women's economic equality suffers. She noted that childcare is not just a personal choice but a cornerstone of gender equality and economic productivity.

Despite advancements in gender equality, women still bear the brunt of childcare responsibilities. Research shows that while 40% of families report equal sharing of childcare duties, only 4% of men are the primary caregivers. The impact of childcare issues is profound, as women often reduce their work hours significantly after having children, leading to long-term financial consequences.

Jacinda understands that if she leaves her job due to childcare concerns, it will affect her income and career progression. "We watch from the sidelines," she said, highlighting the ongoing struggle for women to balance work and family responsibilities in a system that is increasingly under strain.