Victorian families will have better access to playgroups, with 41 new grants to help establish community playgroups announced today as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s $50,000 Great Start Community Playgroup Fund.
Grants of up to $1000 will help parents starting a new community playgroup get the resources they need, like books, toys and play equipment as well as mentoring support, to establish a successfully run playgroup.
Playgroup Victoria is administering the Fund and will assist and support groups establishing new playgroups, with 41 grants announced so far.
Priority for the grants was given to community playgroups in areas where there are currently none or a low number operating.
More than 40,000 children and 30,000 families participate in playgroups in Victoria each year.
Playgroups help new parents to connect to one another, enabling them to learn from and support each other as their children grow.
They play a vital role in strengthening families and communities, and instilling Victorian children with a lifelong love of learning.
The Labor Government is committed to making Victoria the Education State – and this begins with giving every child a strong start in life.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos
“We are proud to support the establishment of new community playgroups through the Great Start Community Playgroup Fund.”
“Early learning is vital for brain development and giving children the best start in life - children learn so much by playing and socialising with each other and playgroups provide a great opportunity for this.”
“We want every Victorian family to have access to a quality playgroup close to home – they are a great way for parents and children to make friends and establish support networks in their local communities.”
Quotes attributable to Acting CEO, Playgroup Victoria, Jason Doherty
“Playgroups help families with young children connect with their community and create networks that enrich parents and children alike.”
“At playgroup you get to meet other people going through similar experiences, ease the isolation that can come with caring for young children and find out about local community, health and support services.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020