Grants for kinder upgrades open

THE state government has announced grants for new and upgraded kindergartens across Victoria ahead of the three-year old kindergarten roll-out next year.

Applications for the 2019/20 Children’s Facilities Capital Program opened last week for local councils and other kindergarten services for grants to build, expand and improve early years facilities.

Meanwhile, the 2019 round of the Inclusive Kindergartens Facilities Program will help kindergartens across the state provide safe and inclusive environments for children with additional needs.

Under the Children’s Facilities Capital Program, major grants of up to $2 million are available for new facilities or significant upgrades, while grants of up to $50,000 are available for expansions and refurbishments of existing facilities. Applications close at midnight on August 9.

“The Children’s Facilities Capital Program has already provided more than 10,000 additional kindergarten places for children in early learning facilities across Victoria,” Education Minister James Merlino said.

“We are getting ready for the roll-out of three-yearold kindergarten with this significant grants program, as well as making sure our four-year-old kindergarten facilities are up to scratch.”

South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman welcomed the launch.

“Local councils and providers are encouraged to apply for the Children’s Facilities Capital Program,” he said.

“This is a great opportunity to expand and refurbish existing facilities and create brand new Early Learning Centres and Integrated Children’s Centres.”

The 2019/20 Victorian Budget 2019/20 included $6 million for the Inclusive Kindergartens Facilities Program, under which kindergartens can apply for up to $200,000 to upgrade their buildings or playgrounds to become more inclusive for children of all abilities.

Grants of up to $10,000 are also available to buy equipment such as adjustable desks and chairs, moveable wheelchair ramps and soft padding for outdoor areas.

The Labor Government has already helped more than 260 kindergarten services upgrade their buildings and playgrounds or provided inclusive equipment though this program.

“We’re helping kinders to upgrade their buildings and playgrounds,” Mr Merlino said.

“Not only so they are more accessible, but also so their grounds encourage learning, curiosity and imagination.”