Queensland launches free kindy health check pilot to support early intervention

A new pilot program launched is set to provide thousands of Queensland children with free, on-site health checks before they start school part of a broader initiative to support earlier identification of health and developmental concerns in the early years.

The $37.5 million Healthy Kindy Kids program, an election commitment of the Queensland Government, will deliver screening for vision, hearing, speech and language development within registered kindergarten programs and early childhood services. Health checks will be prioritised for children where concerns have already been identified by educators or families.

Once fully implemented by the end of 2027, the program is expected to reach up to 60,000 children across the state annually.

Health assessments will be delivered by Queensland Health staff, including allied health assistants, enrolled nurses and student clinicians under the supervision of senior health professionals.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said the rollout reflects the government’s focus on “delivering health services when you need them,” particularly for children in the years before school.

“Early screening is critical to identify health concerns and provide specialist support for kids where needed, before they start school,” Premier Crisafulli said.

Educators have consistently voiced concern about the impact of undiagnosed developmental issues on children’s engagement and learning. Early intervention, informed by educator insight and family observations, plays a vital role in ensuring positive learning trajectories.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls confirmed that kindergartens in South East Queensland will begin accessing the program from March 2026, ahead of a statewide expansion.

“This program will remove barriers for Queensland families to access essential health checks and be supported so their children can reach their full potential,” he said.

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek emphasised the value of cross-agency collaboration, saying the Departments of Education and Health will work closely to support children at a critical stage of development.

“Healthy Kindy Kids will help to identify children who have undiagnosed health or development issues, so we can swoop in sooner and provide the support they need,” he said.

The program aligns with the National Quality Framework’s emphasis on collaborative partnerships and equitable access to support services, particularly under Quality Area 6 Collaborative partnerships with families and communities and Quality Area 2 Children’s health and safety.

Read the Queensland Premiers announcement here.