Funding of more than $3.6 million is being provided to Western Australia’s Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sector through the Preschool Reform Agreement (PRA), to develop and maintain quality preschool programs.
The Commonwealth Government, together with all State and Territory Governments as signatories to the Preschool Reform Agreement (PRA), is committed to strengthening preschool education.
Western Australian early learning services have a bigger opportunity to make a difference, with more than $3.6 million being provided to Western Australia’s Early Childhood Education and Care sector.
Services can access this funding through Supporting Children in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) WA Grants Program.
Child Australia is inviting eligible ECEC services to put forward innovative ideas that help children thrive, build school readiness and ensure every child has the best possible start.
Delivered in partnership with the WA Government under the Preschool Reform Agreement (PRA), the grants support practical initiatives that respond to the needs of children, families and communities across WA from metropolitan areas to regional and remote communities.
To date, 83 projects throughout Western Australia have been successfully funded and delivered statewide.
Under this round of the program, grants between $20,000 to $200,000 will be available to deliver initiatives that develop and maintain quality preschool programs, promote enrolment and regular attendance, and prepare children for school.
Examples of the types of initiatives include Teacher wages, providing parent support workshops, purchasing resource materials, and professional development for educators to deliver culturally appropriate programs.
Child Australia CEO Tina Holtom said the increased funding provides an exciting opportunity for services to turn local knowledge and great ideas into meaningful action.
“The early childhood education and care sector understands its communities better than anyone. This funding gives services the opportunity to turn that local knowledge into innovative ideas that can make a real difference to children and families,” Ms Holtom said.
“With more funding available this year, we’re excited to see what the sector can achieve. We encourage eligible services to think big, think creatively and get their applications in.”
Comments attributed to Early Childhood Minister Sabine Winton, MLA
“The Cook Labor Government is committed to working with all levels of government to ensure that Western Australian children and their families have access to quality early learning, no matter their background.”
“It’s wonderful to partner with Child Australia and the Commonwealth Government in delivering these grants to our early childhood sector.”
“By funding programs to promote enrolment and improve attendance, we’re giving more young children the opportunity to thrive.”
Who Can Apply?
Education and Care services in Western Australia approved under the National Law and the Child Care Services Act can apply.
Apply Now
Applications are now open and close Friday, 25 September 2026.
Services are encouraged to start planning early and review the Grant Guidelines to ensure their proposal demonstrates clear benefits for children, families and their communities.
