What is Free Kinder Funding?

The Victorian Government offers free kindergarten funding for eligible children to support their learning and development in the year before they start school.

This funding covers 15 hours of kindergarten per week, which can be used at any approved kindergarten program in Victoria. Our Kindergarten program receives funding directly from the Victorian Government, so your family is not out of pocket (and don’t have to claim the savings back).

The Free Kinder funding program is designed to ensure all children to access the benefits of early learning and give them a strong foundation for a successful school experience.

  • Free Kinder commenced in 2023 and will continue until further notice.

  • Yes your child can receive Free Kinder Funding at Donvale Preschool, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements.

  • Free Kinder Funding covers your child’s kinder term fees. This saves families in excess of $2600 a year.

  • Victorian children who turn 3 years old by 30th April 2024 are eligible for 3-year-old Free Kinder.


    Victorian children who turn 4 years old by 30th April 2024 are eligible for 4-year-old Free Kinder.


    Only one service can be nominated at a time for Free Kinder Funding


    Only one year each of the 3 year old and 4 year old Kinder funding can be claimed.

  • Children can only receive Free Kinder funding at one service. If a child attends more than once service, the family must nominate which service they will receive their funded kindergarten program and therefore their Free Kinder funding.

    A Free Kinder Funding Form must be completed prior to commencement at Donvale Preschool.

  • Free kinder Funding does not cover the following costs:

    Your initial non - refundable enrolment waitlist fee, payable when you apply for a position at Donvale Preschool, currently $30

    Your non - refundable enrolment deposit of $150, payable upon accepting an offer at Donvale Preschool. This charge covers the costs of all incursions and excursions through out your child’s kinder year.

  • To find out more information about Free Kinder and eligibility please click here