The Allan Labor Government is making kindergartens more inclusive and accessible for all children – with more than 400 services sharing in $9 million to upgrade facilities and buy specialist equipment.
Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn and Member for Laverton Sarah Connolly today announced the recipients of the 2024-25 Building Blocks Inclusion Grants program which delivers critical funding for upgrades and equipment to help Victorian kids reach their full potential.
The grants of up to $200,000 will be shared among 41 kindergartens and will help to deliver upgrades to buildings, playgrounds and amenities – making early learning activities safer, more inclusive and accessible.
Another 361 services will receive up to $10,000 in funding to buy moveable and accessible equipment, such as mobility tools, adjustable furniture and sensory equipment.
Funding is designed for projects that help children engage in activities, build skills, and ensure early learning is inclusive for all abilities.
Six Early Learning Centres in the Laverton Electorate have received funding to purchase inclusive equipment and resources, ensuring that all students can participate in play-based learning, and making their programs more accessible for children with disabilities. These services are:
- One Tree Defence Childcare Unit Williams
- Alexandra Avenue Children's Centre
- Truganina YMCA Early Learning Centre
- Koomail Tardy Community Centre
- Ardeer Kindergarten
- Fairbairn Road Kindergarten
Since the Labor Government launched the Building Blocks program in 2020, it has delivered more than $235 million to plan, build and improve early childhood services across Victoria.
It’s all part of Victoria’s nation-leading $14 billion Best Start, Best Life reforms, which are transforming early childhood education, saving families money and supporting parents and carers to return to work or study if they choose.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn
“Every child deserves to actively participate at kindergarten, no matter their ability – these grants will make sure kinders have the inclusive facilities and equipment they need to support all children to grow, learn and play.”
“We’re supporting the diverse needs of Victoria’s children by making hundreds of kindergartens safer, more engaging and inclusive, so all children can grow and thrive from the best start in life.”
Quote attributable to Member for Laverton Sarah Connolly
“I’m proud to see services in the Laverton Electorate benefit from this vital funding, creating spaces where every child feels included and empowered to reach their full potential.”
