More than $750,000 awarded to support WA early learning initiatives
- A total of 14 Western Australian Early Childhood Education and Care providers have received a share of $758,854 for projects that foster early learning and development
- More than 2,600 children will benefit from funding boost
- Funding awarded through the Supporting Children in Early Childhood Education and Care WA grants program
Projects that help Western Australian children develop language skills and aim to improve access to high-quality early learning are among the recipients of more than $750,000 in funding through the Preschool Reform Agreement (PRA).
The funding through the Commonwealth and State Government partnership will be distributed to the WA Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sector through the second round of the Supporting Children in Early Childhood Education and Care WA grants program administered by Child Australia.
A total of 14 organisations have received up to $100,000 in funding for projects that facilitate early learning and development and support the transition to school for more than 2,600 children.
The successful projects align with the PRA's objectives, with a key focus on improving participation and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and disadvantaged children.
In the first round of the grant program, 16 organisations received over $1 million in funding towards boosting quality and access to kindergarten programs, which benefited more than 5,700 children across WA.
The announcement comes during Children's Week 2024, which runs from 18-27 October and is dedicated to celebrating children and promoting the Rights of the Child, as proclaimed by the United Nations in 1954.
To see the list of successful applicants, follow the link here.
Comments attributed to Early Childhood Education Minister Sabine Winton:
"The Cook Government is committed to working with all levels of government to ensure that WA's young children and their families have access to quality early learning, no matter their background.
"I am proud that through our collaboration with Child Australia and the Commonwealth Government, 14 Early Childhood Education and Care providers will be able to deliver projects that help set children up for success.
"It's even more special to make this announcement during Children's Week 2024, which is all about celebrating children's rights and achievements.
"I want to congratulate the successful applicants and look forward to seeing the impact their projects will have on our community."
Comments attributed to Federal Early Childhood Education Minister Dr Anne Aly:
"All children, no matter their background or where they live, should be able to access the transformational benefits of quality Early Childhood Education and Care.
"Quality early learning plays a critical role in ensuring children get the best start in life and are school ready."
Comments attributed to Child Australia chief executive officer Tina
Holtom:
"We are proud to support the WA Government in distributing these important funds to the ECEC sector.
"We extend our congratulations to the successful organisations and commend their dedication to supporting high quality nurturing experiences for children as they transition from ECEC to school.
"With over 2,600 children benefitting from this funding, the impact will be far-reaching, providing vital resources and support to ensure they are equipped for a seamless transition to school.
"These initiatives will enhance early learning environments and foster positive developmental outcomes, laying the foundation for lifelong success and wellbeing."