WA to trial free full-time kindy, boosting early learning access

A bold trial of free full-time kindy will launch in Western Australia in 2025, positioning the state as a national leader in early learning reform.

The Cook Government has confirmed $33.8 million in funding to support a pilot program offering free, full-time, school-based kindergarten for four-year-old children in 10 metropolitan and regional locations.

Currently, children in WA can access kindy five days per fortnight. The trial will double this entitlement to five days per week, expanding access to fee-free early childhood education and care (ECEC) and helping working families reduce their childcare costs.

While kindy is not compulsory, the expanded model is expected to improve school readiness and long-term learning outcomes for children. It also provides greater flexibility for parents and caregivers balancing work and care responsibilities.

Premier Roger Cook said the initiative delivers both educational and financial benefits.

“Free kindy is important to give every Western Australian kid access to high-quality early learning,” he said. “This is another strong example of my government doing what’s right for Western Australian families.”

As part of the 2025–26 State Budget, $28.9 million has been allocated to support trial implementation, curriculum development, infrastructure upgrades and workforce development measures.

The Government has also committed $4.9 million to establish the new Office of Early Childhood, which will lead the trial and develop the state’s first WA Play Strategy. The Office is housed within the Department of the Premier and Cabinet and is currently recruiting key personnel to oversee delivery.

Early Childhood Minister Sabine Winton said the trial was grounded in evidence about the importance of high-quality early learning.

“We know that early childhood education plays a critical role in setting children up for long-term success,” she said. “This investment will also provide parents and caregivers with the flexibility they need to engage in the workforce.”

Minister Winton added that the WA Play Strategy will highlight the essential role of play in supporting children’s cognitive, physical, social, emotional and language development.

Details of the 10 pilot sites will be announced in the coming months. Insights from the trial will guide a broader phased rollout across the state.

More information will be made available via WA Department of Education.