The Productivity Commission has been examining ideas to make childcare more affordable and more accessible, including a universal flat fee for all families, or a universal 90 per cent subsidy.

it dismissed both as likely to primarily help wealthier families, while significantly costing the budget, instead recommending substantial changes to childcare subsidies.The government will consider the report and take a plan to the next election.

• Guest: Martin Stokie, Productivity Commissioner
• Producers:  Joanna Crothers and Joe Sullivan