Four-year-old Kindergarten is becoming Pre-Prep
All Victorian children can now experience the benefits of 2 years of quality play-based learning for free. For some families, this includes Pre-Prep.
Four-year-old Kindergarten is gradually transitioning from 15 to 30 hours each week across Victoria. Programs will continue to be play-based and led by a qualified teacher.
Pre-Prep will gradually roll out across the state, beginning in Whittlesea in 2026. The staged schedule allows time to grow the workforce, build the infrastructure, and provide services to prepare for expanded programs. If you would like to know more about this State Government Initiative, please visit the Victorian Government website.
Pre-Prep roll-out
From 2026, between 16 and 25 hours of Pre-Prep will be available statewide to:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
- children from a refugee or asylum seeker background
- children who have had contact with Child Protection services
- children supported by Early Start Kindergarten or Access to Early Learning in their Three-Year-Old Kindergarten year.
If you think your child meets one of the eligibility criteria for Pre-Prep, talk to us about what the program may look like for your child in 2026. Hours will vary depending on the kindergarten you choose.
If your child is currently accessing Early Start Kindergarten at a kindergarten in 2025, they are eligible for Pre-Prep from 2026.
Increasing the hours of play-based learning in the year before school gives children even greater access to the many benefits of early childhood education.
Free Kinder is for everyone – you don’t need to be a permanent resident or Australian citizen to access a free kindergarten program.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is there a difference in the program between Kindergarten and Pre-Prep?
No, the program will be the same. The only difference is that Pre-Prep will offer more hours to learn and socialise through play.
Is my child eligible for Pre-Prep in 2026?
Your child is entitled to extra hours, if you or your child meets the following criteria:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
- children from a refugee or asylum seeker background
- children who have had contact with Child Protection services
- children supported by Early Start Kindergarten or Access to Early Learning in their Three-Year- Old Kindergarten year.
If my child is not eligible for Pre-Prep in 2026, how many hours are they entitled to?
Your child will be entitled to 15 hours of funded kindergarten in the two years prior to attending school.
How do I register for Pre-Prep?
Registering for Pre-Prep is the same as applying for kindergarten. Complete the online Whittlesea Kindergarten Registration form below.
Apply now