The Andrews Labor Government is investing in the early childhood sector, providing new jobs and building new children’s facilities to give them the best start in life.
Around 900 new positions across Victoria’s early childhood education and care services have been created since improved educator-to-child ratios were introduced on 1 January 2016.
The new ratio of one educator for every 11 children – down from one per 15 – means better social and learning outcomes.
Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos was in Cranbourne today to announce a $125,000 upgrade to the Rangebank Preschool playground.
The redevelopment includes timber structured areas, shade sails, play equipment, an undercover area, landscaping and plants.
The centre offers a funded four-year-old kindergarten program as well as a three-year-old kindergarten program.
Despite evidence that shows the positive impact of 15 hours of kindergarten in the year before school, the Turnbull Government has yet to confirm ongoing funding for the National Partnership Agreement that funds delivery of kindergarten in the year before school.
Ms Mikakos urged the Liberals to promise an ongoing funding agreement for early years education and end the uncertainty in the sector, as the current funding agreement is due to expire in 2017.
Under the National Partnership Agreement on Universal Access to Early Childhood Education, Victoria funds 10 hours of four-year old kindergarten per week and the Commonwealth contributes to five hours.
Our Government is making Victoria the Education State – this starts with giving every child the best start in life.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos
“Early childhood services and kindergarten make a big difference to children’s lives, and we’re ensuring all Victorian children see the benefits.”
“I urge the Turnbull Government to commit to ongoing funding for four-year-old kindergarten.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Cranbourne Jude Perera
“This new facility is an exciting addition for children at Rangebank Preschool, and the response from families has been overwhelming.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020