Start Strong 2026 funding update

Published on 22 December 2025

The Start Strong 2026 updates continue to strengthen access, sustainability and quality across community-based early childhood services including our Council-owned preschools and Long Day Care services delivering recognised preschool programs.

Start Strong remains a key initiative in providing significant fee relief for families, reducing the cost of preschool for eligible 3- and 4-year-old children. The 2026 guidelines maintain this focus on affordability, while enhancing accountability and ensuring funding is directed to children and communities who need it most.

While overall base program funding has not broadly increased, the NSW Government has announced additional targeted investments across the early childhood sector. These include funding to support children with high learning support needs, expand preschool hours and capacity, and strengthen quality outcomes across services.

How This Benefits Our Services

Increased affordability for families
Ongoing fee relief reduces out-of-pocket costs, supporting stronger enrolments, consistent attendance and improved access for local families.

Stronger focus on equity
Targeted funding supports children experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage, aligning with Council’s commitment to inclusion and community wellbeing.

Sustainable support for not-for-profit providers
Continued prioritisation of community and not-for-profit services reinforces financial stability and long-term service viability — particularly important in growing local government areas.

Recognition of qualified preschool programs
Funding supports programs led by qualified Early Childhood Teachers, strengthening educational quality and school readiness outcomes across both standalone preschools and Long Day Care settings.

Alignment with broader reforms
The updates complement wider early childhood reforms, including the 3-Day Guarantee, encouraging participation in early learning and promoting continuity of care.