Reading Programs

In reply to the Hon. J.A.W. GARDNER (Morialta—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (5 July 2023). (Estimates Committee A)

The Hon. B.I. BOYER (Wright—Minister for Education, Training and Skills): I have been advised of the following:

The following reading programs have been provided funding:

Raising Literacy Australia provides Books to Share, a book gifting program that is designed to encourage all families to read, sing, talk and play with their children. The preschool pack is available to children participating in registered preschool programs and distributed via the centre providing that service and through educational and outreach programs and services. By educating families to engage with their young children in shared reading, we're creating a future where South Australian babies and children are read to every day. This simple but crucial activity underpins their ability to achieve lifelong learning and social inclusion and greatly improves their overall health and wellbeing.

Raising Literacy Australia received funding for preschool reading packs for 2021-22 and 2022-23. The government will provide additional funding over the 3 year period 2023-24 to 2025-26 for preschool packs and baby packs.

United Way South Australia provides a free book gifting program through its Imagination Library of Australia in the Playford council area. The Imagination Library of Australia is a free book gifting program devoted to inspiring a love of reading in the hearts of children everywhere. Each month, enrolled children receive a high-quality, age-appropriate book in the mail, free of charge. Children receive books from birth to age five.

United Way South Australia received funding in 2022-23 and continue to receive funding in 2023-24.