ECEC WA grant program round 3 opens, backed by preschool reform agreement

Child Australia, on behalf of the Western Australian Government, has launched Round 3 of the Supporting Children in ECEC WA Grant Program

As part of the national Preschool Reform Agreement (PRA), this initiative enables early childhood education and care beyond traditional school preschools to access dedicated funding for improving preschool participation and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, developmentally vulnerable children, and more grants.

Funding Grants range from $20,000 to $100,000, aimed at enhancing quality preschool delivery, increasing enrolment and attendance, and preparing children for school.

Eligibility is open to registered ECEC services in WA under the Education and Care Services National Law 

Application period is from 14 July – 25 August 2025, with funding decisions expected in October.

Program Goals Aligned with PRA

The PRA commits to ensuring universal, high-quality preschool access for all Australian children. Round 3 specifically targets:

• Universal and equitable preschool access
• Strengthening participation from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
• Supporting children experiencing social, cultural, economic or developmental disadvantages

In Round 2, over 30 organisations received funding, reaching nearly 9,000 children.

Ministerial statements cite more than $1.3 million in grants, benefiting over 5,700 children in earlier rounds.

Tina Holtom, CEO of Child Australia, commented in 2024:

“We are thrilled to have received such a significant number of high-quality applications… We extend our congratulations to the successful organisations and commend their dedication to enhancing experiences for children as they prepare to embark on their school journey” 

How to Apply

1. Download the Grant Guidelines — available through Child Australia’s website 
2. Confirm eligibility — services must be WA-based, ECEC-registered providers 
3. Prepare your application — detail how your project aligns with PRA objectives.
4. Submit by 25 August 2025 — via the online portal
5. Need assistance? Contact the grant team at [email protected] or call 1300 66 11 64

Terms & Conditions Snapshot

• Funds must be used as approved
• Any changes require written permission 
• Recipients must comply with WA laws (e.g. Working with Children checks) and GST regulations
• Projects must acknowledge both Federal and WA Government support

Applications close on 25 August 2025, this is an opportunity for WA ECEC providers to access significant funding to support early childhood development, inclusion, and engagement in the crucial year before school.