(CNN) About one million families in Australia will have access to free childcare in response to the coronavirus outbreak, the country's Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced Thursday.

The plan will also support the early childhood education and care sector during the crisis, according to a government press release.

"These services are vital for so many parents so they can provide for their family, and children need as much familiarity and continuity as we can help provide at this unsettling time," said Morrison.

"Priority will be given to working parents, vulnerable and disadvantaged children that need early education more than ever and parents with pre-existing enrolments," he added.

Under the plan the sector will receive $1.6 billion AUD ($974 million USD) over the next three months, with payments starting at the end of next week, according to the press release. No exact date has been provided.

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