24 May2023 Victorian Budget analysis
The Andrews Government Victorian 23–24 Budget reflects its commitment to deliver on the Best Start, Best Life kindergarten reform initiatives while demonstrating the Government is listening to calls to improve access, participation and inclusion in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC).
The Budget includes another $1.8 billion over five years to continue key Best Start, Best Life initiatives such as free kindergarten, infrastructure development and workforce building, raising their total current investment in ECEC to $6.2 billion.
ELAA welcomes the Government’s continued commitment to providing children and families access to ECEC. Investing in infrastructure, equipment and outreach is something ELAA has continued to emphasise to the Government as a priority and we’re pleased at the announcement of a further 150 new bush kinder programs, 10 new bilingual kindergartens, 8 new toy libraries, $5000 grants to all kindergartens for new toys and equipment, and improved access to Preschool Field Officers.
ELAA has extensively advocated for improving and streamlining the process of Kindergarten Inclusion Support (KIS). We are pleased to see the inclusion of $18.1 million in the Budget to support the design and piloting of new approaches to support children with a disability, developmental delay and/or additional needs. This will include increasing Preschool Field Officer support in growth areas, creating a more consistent assessment approach, and continuing the specialised equipment program.
ELAA also welcomes the Victorian Government’s continued investment in ECEC including:
- $3.2 million supporting refugee families in ECEC through the Refugee Education Support Program
- $10 million committed to Building Blocks grants between 2023-2025
- $11.2 million for 2023-2024 to continue trials to embed family services in universal settings such as ECEC, health hubs and schools providing accessible services for vulnerable families
- a predicted $912.8 million for Best Start, Best Life infrastructure
- $140 million to reduce Aboriginal over representation in child protective services.
Although the Andrews Government announced their COVID Debt Repayment Plan, the ECEC sector will still be receiving the Budget commitments made during the election campaign. There is a lot of work to be done, but with continued State investment in ECEC, our sector will be recognised for the critical role it plays in shaping the lives and development of Victorian children.
As the roll out of Pre-Prep continues, ELAA will continue our consultation with members, ensuring we advocate for and support you throughout the transition to 30 hours in the year before school.
