Cost of raising two children now hits at least $36,500 yearly in Australia
Family costs have risen 134% over two decades to at least $36,500 yearly, while household income grew only 102%.
Raising two or more children in Australia now costs at least $36,500 per year, according to advocacy group The Parenthood. Family expenses have grown 134% since 2003.
Household income has only grown 102% in the same period. Childcare now costs 33% of the total cost of raising children, up from 27% two decades ago.
Having children cuts Australian women's earnings by an average of 55% over the first five years. Families increasingly need two working parents to stay afloat.
Chief executive Georgie Dent is calling for 52 weeks of paid leave, up from 26 weeks. She also wants a universal childcare system with fee controls and better pay for childcare workers.
- $36,500
- Annual cost
- 134% since 2003
- Cost growth
- 102% since 2003
- Income growth
- 33% of total costs
- Childcare share now
Why it mattersFamilies face a squeeze between stagnant wages and soaring childcare costs. Policy choices around parental leave and childcare support directly affect household budgets.
AustraliaAustralian parents shoulder rising costs while fertility rates fall below replacement level. Government childcare policy will shape whether young families can afford children.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 d ago
