Changes to NSW community preschool funding from 2027 put the future of Koorana’s three community preschools at risk.
We’re asking the NSW Government to keep the current funding for one more year and work with us on a longer-term solution, and we need our community’s help.
What has changed
In October 2026, the NSW Government released new funding guidelines for community preschools, starting in 2027. Two new programs will replace the current ones:
Universal Preschool Funding
Replacing Start Strong for Community Preschools
Inclusion Funding Program
Replacing High Learning Support Needs funding
Why we're concerned
Koorana operates three inclusive community preschools in Lakemba, Roselands and Bass Hill, providing early learning opportunities for children of all abilities.
Koorana’s financial modelling shows that the new funding arrangements will not cover the full cost of delivering safe, quality preschool education, even with the proposed one-year transition payment.
The proposed funding is also insufficient to meet the needs of children requiring higher levels of learning support. This puts additional pressure on our ability to retain the qualified educators needed to deliver inclusive, high-quality early learning.
We are also concerned that these changes were announced without consultation with the community preschool sector and with very limited time to plan for implementation in 2027.
Why community preschools matter
Community preschools are places where children learn, play, make friends and develop a sense of belonging.
For many families, they are an essential and accessible early learning option, particularly those on limited budgets or whose visa conditions make them ineligible for long day care subsidies.
Inclusive community preschools give children with and without disability the opportunity to learn and grow together. If these services are lost, they are not easily replaced.
What we're asking for
We are asking the NSW Government to take two important steps to protect inclusive community preschool education.
Keep the current funding for one more year
Retain the existing community preschool funding arrangements for an additional year, giving services the time and certainty they need to plan.
Work together on a sustainable solution
Work with the community preschool sector to develop a sustainable long-term funding model that supports safe, quality and inclusive early learning for children of all abilities.
Protecting inclusive early learning for children of all abilities.
How you can help
Your voice can help protect inclusive community preschools. Here's how you can make a difference.
Contact your local MP
Ask your local representative to support community preschool funding.
Contact the Minister
Share your concerns with the NSW Minister for Education and Early Learning.
Spread the word
Share this campaign with family, friends and your networks.
Contact your local MP
Contact the MPs representing the areas around Koorana's preschools, or find the representative for your own electorate.
Hon Jihad Dib MP
Member for Bankstown
Phone:
(02) 9759 5000
Email:
bankstown@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Hon Sophie Cotsis MP
Member for Canterbury
Phone:
(02) 9718 1234
Email:
canterbury@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Dr David Saliba MP
Member for Fairfield
Phone:
(02) 9726 9323
Email:
fairfield@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Not sure who represents your area? Find your local MP on the NSW Parliament website.
Contact the Minister for Education and Early Learning
The Hon Prue Car MP
NSW Minister for Education and Early Learning
Phone: (02) 7225 6010
Contact the MinisterHelp spread the word
Share this page with family, friends, colleagues and community networks. Every voice helps.
Our preschools are open as usual
Our preschools remain open as usual
Koorana's preschools are open as usual. Families with questions or concerns are encouraged to speak with their preschool director.
Media enquiries
Morgan Fitzpatrick
Chief Executive Officer, Koorana
Email: morgan.fitzpatrick@koorana.org.au
Phone: 0416 747 711
