Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today unveiled a landmark extension of Canada’s affordable childcare program, securing agreements with 11 of the country’s 13 provinces and territories to bolster early learning and childcare services through 2031. The announcement, made alongside Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Jenna Sudds, commits $36.8 billion over five years to create new childcare spaces, reduce waitlists, and hire more early childhood educators nationwide. For Ontario, this translates into $16.77 billion in federal support, a move hailed as a game-changer for families and the economy.
Speaking at a press conference in Ottawa, Trudeau emphasized the transformative impact of the $10-a-day childcare initiative, a flagship policy of his Liberal government since its inception in 2021. “Affordable childcare is essential for families and children. It’s about giving parents—especially moms—options to go back to work, build their careers, and save money, while ensuring their kids get the best possible start in life,” Trudeau said. “Today’s agreements with 11 provinces and territories, including Ontario, show we’re not just talking about progress—we’re delivering it.”
Ontario’s share of the funding—$16.77 billion—will support the creation of additional childcare spaces, ease pressure on waitlists, and expand the workforce of early childhood educators. According to Trudeau, this investment will help Ontario families save an average of $10,440 per year per child, freeing up disposable income and enabling more parents, particularly women, to re-enter or remain in the workforce. The announcement builds on previous commitments, such as the $10.2 billion pledged through 2025-26 under the Canada-Ontario Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, and the $201.87 million announced in May 2024 for new spaces.
Trudeau highlighted the economic ripple effects, noting, “Studies show that every dollar invested in early childhood education returns between $1.50 and $2.80 to the broader economy. This isn’t just about families—it’s about strengthening Canada’s future.”
The announcement has drawn enthusiastic support from Liberal MPs and candidates in Brampton, a city where childcare affordability has been a pressing issue for growing families. Sonia Sidhu, MP for Brampton South, praised the initiative’s focus on equity and accessibility. “As a mother and a representative of Brampton South, I’ve seen firsthand how high childcare costs burden families,” Sidhu said. “This $16.77 billion for Ontario will create more spaces and bring relief to parents here, ensuring no one is left behind. It’s a proud day for our community and our government.”
Amandeep Sodhi, the Liberal Party candidate for Brampton Centre, echoed Sidhu’s sentiments, emphasizing the program’s potential to empower women. “Affordable childcare is a lifeline for working families in Brampton Centre,” Sodhi stated. “With this funding, we’re not just reducing costs—we’re opening doors for women to pursue their careers and contribute to our economy. I’m thrilled to see the Prime Minister deliver on this promise.”
Ruby Sahota, MP for Brampton North and recently appointed Minister of Democratic Institutions and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, highlighted the regional economic benefits. “In Brampton and across Southern Ontario, this $16.77 billion investment will mean more jobs for educators and more opportunities for parents,” Sahota said. “It’s a win for families, a win for our workforce, and a win for our economy. I’m committed to ensuring these funds reach the communities that need them most.”
Kamal Khera, MP for Brampton West and Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, underscored the social impact of the announcement. “For too long, childcare costs have forced parents—especially moms—to choose between their careers and their kids,” Khera remarked. “This extension of $10-a-day childcare in Ontario will level the playing field, giving families in Brampton West and beyond the support they deserve. It’s about fairness and inclusion for every generation.”
The agreements with 11 provinces and territories extend the federal childcare space program, initially launched with a $30 billion commitment in 2021, through to 2031. While the original goal of $10-a-day childcare by 2025-26 faced hurdles due to labour shortages and inflation, Trudeau noted significant progress: 150,000 new spaces have been created or funded since the program’s start, with the remaining targeted spaces expected by March 2026. The $36.8 billion extension, starting in 2026-27, aims to sustain this momentum.
The announcement comes amid Trudeau’s final days as Prime Minister, with his resignation set to take effect soon after nearly a decade in office. Reflecting on his legacy, Trudeau grew emotional, stating, “I’ve worked every day to put Canadians first, and affordable childcare is one of the ways we’ve done that. I’m here to tell you all: we got you.”d
While the Liberal government celebrates this milestone, the political landscape remains uncertain. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has vowed to overhaul the childcare program if elected, criticizing its implementation as chaotic. Nonetheless, for now, families in Ontario and beyond can anticipate relief as the $10-a-day vision inches closer to reality.