Early Years Learning Framework

The Hon. S.L. GAME (14:44): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before directing a question to the Attorney-General, representing the Minister for Education, about the federal government's curriculum for children, particularly the Early Years Learning Framework or 'Belonging, Being, Becoming', which is mandatory framework for teaching children from infancy until age five.

Leave granted.

The Hon. S.L. GAME: The Institute of Public Affairs' Dr Bella d'Abrera says the early years program is turning young children into environmental and cultural activists instead of letting them be kids. She says parents are generally unaware that their children are being exposed to mature themes like gender and sexuality. My questions to the Attorney-General, representing the Minister for Education, are:

1. Are South Australian children in the early years educational setting also being encouraged to explore and question their gender identity?

2. Does the minister acknowledge the growing concerns amongst parents, carers and guardians regarding the disconnect between what they expect their children to be learning and the reality of the curriculum?

3. Are South Australian parents being adequately informed about the subjects and teaching approach?

4. What procedures exist to help inform parents about the ideologies educators employ when educating their children in daycare centres and educational institutions?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector) (14:45): I thank the honourable member for her questions, and I will be happy to pass those on to the minister responsible in another place and bring back a reply.