Wednesday, 21 February 2018

The Andrews Labor Government is helping Gippsland kindergartens upgrade their buildings and playgrounds and buy equipment to provide a more inclusive environment for children with disabilities and additional needs.

Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing today announced $6.4 million for the new Inclusive Kindergartens Facilities Program to improve classrooms and playgrounds.

Local governments, not-for-profit service providers and pre-schools in Gippsland are encouraged to apply for infrastructure upgrades – including playgrounds – of up to $200,000 or for grants up to $10,000 to buy inclusive education equipment such as moveable wheelchair-access ramps or adjustable tables and chairs.
The funding is part of a $19 million suite of initiatives to make early childhood services more inclusive for children with disabilities and additional needs.

The Labor Government is delivering a record $76.4 million to build, upgrade and improve kinders across Victoria – to ensure local families continue to have access to first rate local facilities.

Families will also benefit from the Government’s $202.1 million Education State Early Childhood Reform Plan, announced in the 2017-18 Victorian Budget.

The plan recognises the importance of providing families with strong support in early childhood, so kids are ready for kinder, ready for school and ready for life.

Applications for the Inclusive Kindergartens Facilities Program can be made online at http://www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/Pages/Inclusive-Kindergartens-Facilities-Program.aspx.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Education Jenny Mikakos;

“No child should be left behind – we’re making kinders and playgrounds more accessible for kids of all abilities.”

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

“We’re determined to create inclusive and accessible kindergartens that give every child the opportunity to be involved and included in the classroom and the playground.
 
“I encourage service providers, councils and pre-schools across Gippsland to apply to upgrade their kinders and create more welcoming and accessible environments for every child.”