Free preschool for NSW families with ongoing funding announced in Budget

The Start Strong Free Preschool program will commence from January 2022, New South Wales Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and NSW Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell announced yesterday. 

Community and mobile preschools will benefit from the announcement, with the funding designed to replace the current COVID-19 free preschool program, which will conclude at the end of 2021, meaning that there will be continuous cost-of-living support for parents and carers who choose to use those services.

“One of the first things we did in response to COVID-19 was to make preschool free, removing a layer of financial pressure for many families,” Mr Perrottet said.

“I’m delighted that we can continue funding these crucial years in a child’s development while easing the cost of living pressures for families.”

Ms Mitchell said that early childhood education is an important part of development and preparation, especially in those critical two years before school.

“This is a $150 million investment in the future, as we know the first 2,000 days of a child’s life are crucial and those who experience the benefits of early childhood education grow up to lead happier, healthier and more productive lives,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Families will save up to $4,000 per year per child in preschool fees, easing cost of living pressures and helping with the balance of work and family life.

Up to 740 community and mobile preschools will benefit from the investment. Department of Education preschools will also be supported to continue offering free preschool.

For more information, please see here.