NSW Government announces $20m for ECEC providers to tackle undersupply

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) providers servicing New South Wales have been invited to apply for funding under a new $20 million program to create extra places for children in areas with an undersupply.

Through the new Building Early Learning Places Program the NSW Government will accelerate the build of new services or expand facilities in areas of greatest need, with 31 targeted areas in Western and South West Sydney, the Illawarra, South Coast, Mid North Coast, Central Tablelands, Central Western Plains and Northern Tablelands.

Open to eligible not-for-profit community preschools and long daycare centres in the 31 targeted areas as well as to early learning places delivered by Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) service providers, the new program will support the anticipated creation of at least 300 additional spaces a week for children aged birth – six years of age. 

“We want to ensure all children have access to the benefits of early childhood education, regardless of their background or postcode,” Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said. 

“This program will support communities where we know families need more access to early childhood education and care.”

More information, including how to apply and opening dates for the program, can be found on the department’s website at education.nsw.gov.au/BuildingEarlyLearningPlaces