Thesis abstract:

«p»My thesis will explore the notion of justice and it's relationship to Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) politcies in Australia. ECEC policies in Australia are intended to increase the quality, access, and affordability of childcare. However, the effectiveness of these policies has been critiqued by many. «/p» «p»Through an analysis of the evolution of discourse (and corresponding political ideologies) surrounding ECEC, my thesis aims to understand how certain policy trajectories (i.e., the marketisation of the childcare industry) have been encouraged as opposed to others (i.e., a universal state model). It is hoped that by demonstrating the role of discourse in ECEC policy, opportunities and conditions for effective policy change are realised, providing valuable knowledge for furture researchers and policymakers alike who advocate for alternative policy solutions that are (arguably) better equipped to address issues of equity and justice. «/p»