Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children can get up to 15 hours of free kindergarten each week. To be eligible, your child must turn three or four years old by 30 April in the year they go to kindergarten.
Koorie Kids Shine was launched by the Victorian Government to help promote participation by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children in kindergarten.
Benefits of Kindergarten
Kindergarten is important for children. Research has shown that early education helps set children up for a bright future. In kindergarten they learn skills that they will take with them throughout their life.
Kindergarten classes will often have a number of students from different cultures and backgrounds.
In kindergarten your child will learn to build their own sense of identity and how their own culture relates to the diversity in the world around them.
Respecting Cultural Identity
Kindergartens work hard to create culturally safe places for Koorie children and families and include Aboriginal perspectives in the learning curriculum and environment.
You are encouraged to talk with your child’s teacher about your own cultures and beliefs, and how these can be incorporated into the activities at kindergarten.
Enrolling your Child
To enrol your child, find a local kindergarten service, speak to your local council or contact your closest Koorie Engagement Coordinator.