More Victorian families will benefit from upgraded and inclusive kinder facilities - with the Allan Labor Government investing to make sure every child gets the best start in life, no matter their needs or abilities.
Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn today announced that applications are now open for the latest round of Building Blocks Inclusion Grants - giving kinders $4.5 million in funding they need to create safe, welcoming and inclusive learning environments for every child.
Grants of up to $200,000 are available to upgrade early childhood buildings and outdoor play spaces, helping kinders become more accessible for children of all abilities.
Kinders can also apply for up to $10,000 to purchase inclusive education equipment including sensory tools, adjustable seating and mobility aids.
The Labor Government is investing billions to build and expand hundreds of kindergartens across the state, supporting the delivery of 15 hours of three-year-old kindergarten each week by 2029 and up to 30 hours of Pre-Prep each week by 2036.
Through our nation-leading $14 billion Best Start, Best Life reforms, we're transforming early childhood education to help children thrive, save families money, and support parents and carers to return to work or study if they choose.
Free Kinder is saving families up to $2,600 per child, every year - helping make kinder more accessible for every child.
Since 2015, the Labor Government has invested more than $189 million through Building Blocks Inclusion and Improvement Grants - supporting more than 8,400 kinder upgrade projects across the state.
To apply for Building Blocks Inclusion Grants, visit schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/building-blocks-grants-inclusion.
As stated by Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn
"We're backing kinders right across Victoria to be safe, inclusive and welcoming so every child gets the best possible start."
"Free Kinder is saving families thousands every year - and Inclusion Grants make sure no child misses out on those benefits."
"These grants will upgrade playgrounds, classrooms and equipment, giving children of all abilities the chance to learn and play together."
