A study commissioned by UnitingCare Children, Young People and Families has found that only three per cent of school-aged children living in Australia's most disadvantaged communities are using after-school care, compared to 17 per cent in wealthier reas.
Karen Bevan, head of advocacy and research for UnitingCare CYPF, said it was vital that such children have access to high-quality after-school programs.
"We need to focus on making these services more accessible to families on tight budgets, but also to help families access the rebates available for OSHC," Ms Bevan said.
The research will be presented at a forum for out of school hours care in Sydney today.
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