Early Childhood programs - expansion
2751. Hon Alison Xamon to the Minister for Energy representing the Minister for Education
I refer to the Budget papers page 357 fourth dot point regarding, the extension of kindergarten hours, and ask —
(1) Will the Education Department be funding any new programs for children younger than kindergarten age (under 3 years) in 2011, given the recognised importance of early childhood years in building a successful foundation for schooling, and later life?
(2) Is there any allocation for early childhood programs specifically for zero to three year old Aboriginal children?
(3) How much funding is being allocated to the Office of Early Childhood Learning and Development?
(4) Of those mentioned in (3) —
(a) how many are FTE; and
(b) how does this compare to this year?
Hon PETER COLLIER replied:
(1) The Department does not centrally fund programs for children under the age of three years.
(2) Yes. Funding is provided for the operation of twenty nine Aboriginal Kindergarten Programs for three year olds.
(3) A total of $13 807 300 was allocated to the Office of Early Childhood Learning and Development in 2009-10.
(4) (a) 8 FTE.
(b) A total of $13 807 300 was allocated to the Office of Early Childhood Learning and Development in 2009-10.
A total of $17 663 700 was allocated to the Office of Early Childhood Learning and Development in 2010-11.