Disability Services

In reply to Dr CLOSE (Port Adelaide—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (26 September 2018). (Estimates Committee B)

The Hon. J.A.W. GARDNER (Morialta—Minister for Education): I have been advised of the following:

The process to allocate funding for the preschool support program is the same as in previous years. The government is currently considering opportunities to improve and streamline funding processes.

In regard to increasing both enrolment and attendance at the preschool level, there are a range of strategies in place for all children. This includes promoting preschools through the Every Day Counts campaign. Preschools make contact with families if a child is regularly absent to encourage attendance, noting that preschool is not compulsory.

The Department for Education also operates Children's Centres for Early Childhood Development and Parenting. The family service coordinators and community development coordinators at these children's centres have a key role in supporting disadvantaged and vulnerable families and children to access early childhood services, including preschool programs.