The State Government has confirmed Kindy will be made free for all kids in Queensland.
It’s the latest pre-budget cost of living announcement made by the State Government ahead of today’s fiscal review.
The Premier has confirmed more than $645 million will be put aside for the life-changing measure, which will see an extra 50,000 children able to attend kindy.
The move is also set to save Queensland families around $4,600 a year.
Annastacia Palaszczuk said the multi-million dollar investment “will help every Queensland child get a great start in life and support parents in their return to work”.
“I asked Queensland what they thought about free kindy and we have listened,” the Premier said.
“Today’s announcement is a historic investment in Queensland children, their families and our state’s future.
“This investment will put thousands of dollars back into the pockets of families at a time when we know people are doing it tough, and support parents getting back into the workforce.
“There are currently around 8,000 children who are eligible to attend a kindy but don’t, and it’s time to close that gap.”
The funding will also include ongoing investment to attract and retain early childhood workers, particularly in regional and remote areas.
The free kindy measure will come into play for all Queensland families from 1 January 2024.
