Tim Pallas MP has welcomed local kindergarten students into the new kinder year, with better educator-to-child ratios introduced this year meaning more individual attention and care for them in the year before school.

The Andrews Labor Government is investing up to $83.7 million to help kindergartens meet the new staffing requirements, supporting eligible community-based kindergartens to hire additional staff.

Introduced on January 1 this year, the new ratios will mean one educator for every 11 children – down from one per 15 – giving kids more individual care and attention.

The Labor Government is also getting on with the job of building and upgrading new and existing kindergartens under its $50 million kinder improvements commitment.

Last year the Government fought hard to secure 15 hours of kinder for Victorian families, and this year will continue to push for the Turnbull Government to end the uncertainty and commit to funding beyond 2017.

Early childhood development is at the heart of the Labor Government’s vision to making Victoria the Education State.

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee, Tim Pallas

“In 2016 we are delivering better services and strengthening the quality of our early years services so Werribee kids get a great start in life.”

“I wish all children starting kindergarten and their families a happy and successful year, as we get on with the job of delivering better local services so families get the most out of the Education State.”