NSW school upgrades to deliver new preschools as part of historic early learning investment

The Minns Labor Government has announced that construction will begin this term on 21 new and upgraded public schools across New South Wales, with four projects set to include new public preschools, advancing the government’s commitment to expand access to early learning.

The projects, collectively valued at $1.4 billion, represent a significant step forward in addressing enrolment demand in growing communities and delivering high-quality early education infrastructure alongside broader school upgrades.

As part of the government’s pledge to build 100 public preschools by 2027, four of the 10 primary school upgrades commencing this term will include integrated preschool facilities. These new public preschools will provide critical access to quality early learning programs in areas previously underserved.

The announcement coincides with the completion of a $20 million upgrade at Punchbowl Public School, which includes eight new permanent classrooms and additional support spaces. While that project did not include early years infrastructure, it forms part of a broader government strategy to improve educational outcomes across all age groups.

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said the government’s investment in early learning was an essential part of its public education vision.

“As a Labor government, we believe in the transformative power of high-quality public education,” Ms Houssos said. “We are delivering new preschools in line with our commitment to give every child the best possible start, regardless of where they live.”

Premier Chris Minns echoed this sentiment, highlighting the government’s broader infrastructure agenda.

“From state-of-the-art upgrades to new preschools, we’re delivering the largest investment in public schools and early learning infrastructure in NSW history,” Mr Minns said.

The government’s $9 billion investment in school infrastructure, outlined in the 2025–26 State Budget, includes funding for both school-age and early years facilities, supporting enrolment growth and enhancing community access to local services.

The new public preschools are expected to ease pressure on families in rapidly growing suburbs and support school readiness for children entering the formal education system.

Further details on the location of the new preschool-inclusive upgrades are anticipated in coming weeks, with construction on all 21 projects scheduled to begin before the end of Term 3.

Read the full media release here.