Family First National Director and NSW Legislative Council candidate Lyle Shelton has welcomed reports that the Liberal Party is considering policies long championed by Family First, including income splitting and greater choice in childcare funding.
Mr Shelton said it was encouraging to see senior Liberals canvassing tax breaks, income splitting and vouchers to empower parents to choose care arrangements that suit their families — not just centre-based childcare.
“For years, Family First has argued that parents, not bureaucrats, know what is best for their children,” Mr Shelton said.
“We have consistently advocated income splitting so single-income and stay-at-home parent families are not punished by a tax system that favours dual-income households. We have also argued that childcare subsidies should follow the child, giving families genuine choice — whether that’s a parent at home, a grandparent, a nanny or a childcare centre.”
Mr Shelton said the Coalition’s willingness to debate these ideas showed that Family First’s presence in Australian politics — and its decision to contest elections — was having an impact.
“When Family First stands up at elections, it puts pressure on the major parties to lift their game and adopt truly family-friendly policies. That is exactly what we are now seeing,” he said.
However, Mr Shelton urged the Coalition to move beyond discussion.
“Considering these policies is welcome. Adopting them is what matters. Families need relief now from a tax and welfare system that too often penalises traditional family structures and limits real choice.”
Mr Shelton said income splitting would recognise the economic value of unpaid caregiving and help ease cost-of-living pressures at a time when many young couples are delaying having children.
“If the Liberals are serious about rebuilding trust with families, they should embrace income splitting and flexible childcare funding as core policy commitments — not just talking points.”
“Family First will continue to lead the debate and fight for policies that put families first.”
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