LOCAL preschoolers will continue to attend session for 15 hours each week following a Federal Government commitment to retain the current structure.
Minister for Education and Training, Senator Simon Birmingham announced last week the government will spend $2.6 million in the Mallee electorate for preschool education.
Federal Member for Mallee, Andrew Broad – who had advocated strongly for the funding to be committed before the end of the year – commended his parliamentary colleagues for confirming funding will continue into 2018.
“It is important for the future of our country, that we give our children the best possible start to their education, no matter where they live” he said.
“We know that a quality preschool education is essential for laying the foundations for successful learning, including transition to full-time school and future opportunities in education, employment and leadership within our communities.
“This funding will make child care and early learning more affordable and accessible for families across the Wimmera Mallee and will provide certainty and consistency for our preschools and long day care staff.”
Mr Broad said the funding extension will allow for more in-depth discussions about how continuous funding can be estimated, to improve the delivery of preschool services in a way that will suit each state.
“We all want what is best for the youngest and most vulnerable members of our communities – they are our future and it is important that we give them every opportunity to be the best that they can be,” Mr Broad said.
