Council advocates for 15 kindergarten hours

Published on 24 July 2018

Council has joined with councils across the state in calling on the Australian Government to show its commitment to early childhood education by continuing to fund 15 hours per week of kindergarten beyond 2019.

Council is backing the Municipal Association of Victoria’s I Love Kinder campaign which calls on the federal government to provide a long-term commitment to fund 15 hours of four year old kindergarten for all children.

Director Community Wellbeing, Karen Stevens encouraged residents to take part in the campaign and urge the federal government for a funding extension.

“Since 2013, preschool children in the shire have had access to a quality 15 hour early childhood education program through our eight kindergartens and programs offered in child care settings in the shire,” she said.

“Research shows kindergarten gives children the best possible start in their education journey.

“Kindergarten helps give them confidence, helps them to develop independence and a sense of responsibility, encourages their creativity and the ability to make friends.

“Join the I Love Kinder campaign and show your support for this vital service.”

To join the online campaign for 15 hours of funding for four year old kindergarten, visit the I Love Kinder website.

For information on Council's current kindergarten services see Kindergarten.