Thursday, 16 February 2017

The Andrews Labor Government is helping parents and carers across Gippsland establish and operate community playgroups.

The Great Start Community Playgroup grants will help new playgroups in Toongabbie, Trafalgar, Bairnsdale and Welshpool cover set-up fees and also stock up on toys, play equipment, books and other resources that can be used by families.

The $50,000 fund supports the establishment of community playgroups across the state. Families in rural and regional areas and in places where there are no existing playgroups were encouraged to apply.

Successful grant recipients will receive resources and mentoring support for their newly established community playgroup, valued at up to $1000.

More than 40,000 children and 30,000 families participate in playgroups in Victoria each year.

Playgroups help new parents connect with one another, enabling them to learn from and support each other as their children grow.

Playgroups play a vital role in strengthening families and communities, and instilling Victorian children with a lifelong love of learning.

The Government is making Victoria the Education State – this begins with giving every child a strong start in life.

The Great Start Community Playgroup Fund is administered by Playgroup Victoria.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing:

“The Andrews Labor Government is helping more parents across Victoria access community playgroups closer to home.”

“Early childhood services make a huge difference to children’s lives and learning – these grants will ensure that more kids in Gippsland have the books, toys and equipment that they need to flourish.”