The updated Kindergarten Funding Guide is now available.
The guide is the key reference for funded kindergarten providers. It brings together information about:
- requirements for operating a funded kindergarten service
- kindergarten funding and eligibility
- provider reporting and compliance obligations.
After consulting services and other users, we have restructured the guide to make information easier to find, navigate and understand.
The updated guide reflects current kindergarten funding policy settings, including updates and clarifications to existing requirements. A summary of changes is available on the department’s website.
We will keep the guide updated regularly. Service providers should review the updated guide and summary of changes and refer to the online version for the latest information.
Service providers are responsible for understanding and meeting the requirements in the guide as a condition of kindergarten funding.
The updated guide includes a new statement on the inclusion of First Nations children, families and communities in kindergarten programs. The statement supports the implementation of Marrung 2026–2036. It also supports the Victorian Government’s commitment to an education system where First Nations learners:
- feel safe, respected and strong in their culture and identity
- have a voice in decisions that affect their education
- have access to high-quality learning and support
- can move confidently through early childhood, school, further study, training and work.
One funded kindergarten place form
The 2027 one funded kindergarten place form is now available. There are no changes to the form or policy settings for 2027.
A child can access a funded kindergarten place at only one service at a time. Services must make sure families complete the declaration as part of the enrolment process and keep a signed copy on the child’s enrolment record.
The department can request copies of completed declarations at any time for audit purposes.
To access and download the form, visit: Resources for funded kindergartens.
Additional year of funded kindergarten declarations
Early childhood teachers must complete an additional year declaration of eligibility form for children assessed as needing an additional year of funded kindergarten in 2027. This was formerly known as a second-year declaration.
Teachers should complete the form after reviewing the child’s Term 3 plan for learning and development and discussing the outcome with the family.
Completed forms must be submitted to your local Early Childhood Improvement Branch by Monday 30 November 2026.
The department can request a copy of the declaration when assessing an exemption from school application (DOCX, 74.4 KB).
To access the form, visit: Additional year of funded kindergarten.
Find out more
For more information, refer to Kindergarten Funding Guide.
For further enquiries, contact Early Learning Funding and Operations by email: kindergarten.funding@education.vic.gov.au
Updated