The Albanese Labor Government has struck a preschool funding agreement with the States and Territories, providing funding certainty to the end of 2027.
The Preschool Reform Agreement supports the delivery of 15 hours a week, or 600 hours a year, of quality preschool programs for every child in the year before school.
It has a focus on improving preschool participation and outcomes, including for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and children experiencing disadvantage.
The Preschool Reform Agreement also continues rollout of the Preschool Outcomes Measure, which supports teachers and educators to better understand a child's learning and development needs.
The Albanese Labor Government has worked collaboratively with the States and Territories to deliver this agreement on time.
It went to the Education Ministers Meeting in October and was agreed in principle by all States and Territories.
The Minister for Early Childhood Education, Jess Walsh, then wrote to Early Education Ministers with a formal offer.
Western Australia, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory have now signed, which means the agreement will come into effect for these jurisdictions allowing Australian Government funding to flow, with others to follow.
This extension will bring the Australian Government's contribution to over $3 billion over the life of the agreement.
At the Education Ministers Meeting, Ministers also agreed to continue to work together on future reforms beyond the end of this extended agreement, to help build a quality, universal early education and care system.
Children who engage in quality preschool programs are generally better prepared for when they start primary school, and also as they progress through life.
Attributable to Jess Walsh, Minister for Early Childhood Education:
"We know that quality preschool helps children prepare to thrive at school and in the years beyond.
"I am so pleased we've been able to deliver funding certainty to ensure Australian children can attend preschool, giving them the best possible start in life.
"The Agreement is delivering on its objectives to strengthen the delivery of preschool education, ensuring children are better prepared for their first year of school.
"I'd like to thank my State and Territory colleagues for working collaboratively with us to make this happen."
