Tuesday, 18 February 2025

Early childhood funding

Gary MAAS (Narre Warren South) (19:17): (1008) The adjournment matter I wish to raise is for the Minister for Children in the other place and concerns the 2024–25 Building Blocks inclusion grants program. The action that I seek is that the minister provide further information on how the program will help make kindergartens more inclusive for children in my electorate of Narre Warren South. The Allan Labor government continues to invest in the wellbeing and education of our children, and we know that kids have diverse needs and do not all learn and play in the same way. By investing in projects that make early learning safer and more inclusive, our youngest Victorians have the best opportunity to grow and to thrive. It was really terrific to hear that the recipients of the Building Blocks grants included services in my electorate of Narre Warren South. Narre Warren South is a growing community that many young families now call their home, so it was really terrific that some funding would be received. Early childhood education is so important for a good start in life, and I am thrilled to be a part of government that is taking steps to ensure that our youngest students and their families get the support they need. I look forward to sharing the minister’s response with my community.