Canberra families can access up to 300 hours free preschool per year with the Three-year-old preschool program.
Delivered through participating Early Childhood and Education Care (ECEC) services, the funding of more than $50 million over four years is the biggest investment in the early childhood education sector to date.
This investment will provide an average saving of $1,329 per eligible child. Equitable access to quality, play-based early learning is a powerful way to support children’s learning, wellbeing, and development, and it has life-long benefits.
This program is being delivered as a key part of Set up for Success: An Early Childhood Strategy for the ACT.
Preschool program delivery model
The Three-year-old preschool program provides up to 300 hours free preschool.
It is delivered through participating services within standard operating hours.
Outside of these hours other play-based learning will be provided, and standard service charges will apply, minus the Australian Government’s Child Care Subsidy (if eligible).
Find out how your child can benefit.
See if a service near you is participating.
Find out how to partner with the ACT Government.
Find out more
If you have any questions about the Three-year-old preschool program please contact the team on 6207 4681 or three-year-oldpreschool@act.gov.au.