Queensland ECEC providers encouraged to sign up for SwimStart referral status

Kindergarten and preschool providers, long day care providers, and other senior professionals who work with Queensland children and families have been encouraged to register as SwimStart referral agents to support more families to access up to $150 for learn-to-swim lessons with a registered SwimStart activity provider.

SwimStart is a program which aims to provide greater access to learn-to-swim lessons for eligible children aged birth to four years of age through the provision of vouchers to offset costs.

Swim schools can join SwimStart by registering as an activity provider to accept vouchers and attract children and families.

Round Two of the funding is now open, and the Queensland government is eager to have the support of early childhood education and care (ECEC) providers to ensure the program can benefit as many children and families as possible. 

Registered SwimStart referral agents can assist families in genuine financial need to access SwimStart vouchers by:

• promoting the program
• helping families set up an account and apply for a voucher
• providing access to a computer
• assisting parents, guardians and carers who are experiencing language barriers
• assisting the parent/carer/guardian if the child does not have a valid Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card.
• applying for vouchers on their behalf using the parent/guardian/carer details.

For more information on the SwimStart program, eligibility criteria and how to support please see here.