NSW Start Strong Program

Start Strong Preschool Program

At Oz Education Early Learning Centres, eligible families can benefit from the NSW Government’s Start Strong Preschool Program, designed to make quality early childhood education more affordable and accessible for children in the years before school. The program provides funding and fee relief to support preschool-aged children attending approved early learning services.

Our Start Strong Preschool Program combines the benefits of a structured preschool curriculum with the flexibility and convenience of long day care, helping children develop the confidence and skills they need for a successful transition to school.

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child STEM learning and holding magnifying glass

What Is the Start Strong Preschool Program?

The Start Strong Program is a NSW Government initiative that helps families access affordable, high-quality preschool education in the years before children start school. The program supports children aged 3 years and above who attend eligible long day care and preschool services.

The program aims to:

  • Improve the affordability of preschool education
  • Increase participation in quality early learning programs
  • Support school readiness and child development
  • Encourage children to attend at least 600 hours of preschool education before starting school

Benefits of Start Strong at Oz Education

  • Qualified early childhood teachers: Our preschool programs are delivered by experienced educators who support every child’s learning, development, and wellbeing.
  • Fee Relief for Eligible Families: The NSW Government provides fee relief funding to help reduce the cost of preschool education for eligible children attending approved services.
  • School Readiness Program: Children develop important skills including early literacy, numeracy foundations, communication skills, independence, social and emotional confidence
  • Long Day Care Convenience: Families enjoy the flexibility of extended care hours while their child participates in a high-quality preschool program.
  • Play-Based Learning: Our curriculum encourages curiosity, creativity, problem-solving, and a lifelong love of learning.
educator and girl hi 5
qualified educator with children and stem activities

Why Choose Oz Education for Preschool?

At Oz Education, we believe every child deserves a strong start to their learning journey.

Families choose Oz Education because we offer:

  • Government-supported preschool programs
  • Experienced and caring educators
  • School readiness focus
  • Play-based learning environments
  • Flexible long day care hours
  • Safe and nurturing centres
  • Strong partnerships with families

Our preschool programs are designed to help children build confidence, independence, resilience, and the skills needed for future success.

Find a Centre Near You

We understand that choosing childcare is an important decision. With over 45 years of trusted experience, Oz Education is dedicated to supporting your family by providing exceptional early childhood education in a safe and nurturing environment.

Discover a welcoming and engaging early learning centre close to home. Conveniently located across NSW, Oz Education makes it easy for families to access high-quality childcare tailored to every stage of development.

Each centre combines play-based learning, experienced educators, and modern facilities to help your child grow, learn, and thrive. Use our centre finder to explore locations near you, check availability, and secure your spot today – places fill quickly.

Enquire now or call us on 1300 088 520 to speak with our team.

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Enrolments Open: Enquire Now or Call Us On 1300 088 520!

Our friendly team is here to help with any questions you have about programs, enrolments and centre tours. Contact us on 1300 088 520 or submit an enquiry – we’re here to support your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find an Oz Education centre near me?

Oz Education operates early learning and childcare centres across NSW and Victoria. Use our Centre Finder to explore locations near you, view centre information, check availability and enquire about enrolment opportunities.

Where are Oz Education childcare and early learning centres located?

Oz Education operates trusted childcare and early learning centres across New South Wales and Victoria. Our centres are located in Auburn, Boambee East, Dallas, Fairfield, Footscray, Guildford, Gunnedah, Homebush, Lake Cathie, Lidcombe, Redfern, Tuggerah and Wyong.

Families can use our Centre Finder to explore their nearest location, learn more about each centre, view program information, book a tour and enquire about enrolment availability.

What age groups do Oz Education early learning centres cater for?

We welcome children aged 6 weeks to 6 years through age-specific early learning programs for babies, toddlers, preschool and kindergarten-aged children.

Can I book a tour of an Oz Education centre?

Yes. We encourage families to book a centre tour to meet our educators, explore the learning environments and learn more about our programs. Centre tours are a great opportunity to ask questions and determine whether the centre is the right fit for your family.

Do you have childcare vacancies available?

Availability varies between centres and age groups. We recommend contacting your preferred Oz Education centre or submitting an enquiry online to check current vacancies, waitlist options and upcoming enrolment opportunities.

How do I enrol my child at an Oz Education early learning centre?

You can submit an enquiry online, contact us on 1300 088 520 directly or book a tour. Our team will guide you through availability, enrolment requirements and the next steps for securing a place for your child.

Are Oz Education centres approved for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?

Yes. Eligible families may be able to reduce their childcare costs through the Australian Government Child Care Subsidy (CCS). Our team can help you understand the enrolment process and provide information about available support.

What is the NSW Start Strong Program?

The NSW Start Strong Program is a government initiative that helps make quality preschool education more affordable for eligible families while supporting children’s learning and development before school.

Does Oz Education participate in the Start Strong Program?

Yes. Eligible Oz Education centres in New South Wales participate in the Start Strong Program and may offer fee relief to eligible families in accordance with government funding guidelines.

Who is eligible for Start Strong fee relief?

Eligibility is determined by the NSW Government and may vary depending on a family’s circumstances and enrolment details. Families should contact our team for the latest eligibility information.

How does the Start Strong Program help families?

The program provides funding that can help reduce preschool education costs for eligible families, making high-quality early learning more accessible and affordable.

Can my child receive both Start Strong funding and the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?

In many cases, eligible families may benefit from both the Start Strong Program and the Australian Government Child Care Subsidy (CCS), subject to applicable funding rules and eligibility requirements.

What age does my child need to be to access Start Strong funding?

The Start Strong Program is generally designed to support children in the years before they begin primary school. Eligibility requirements may vary and are subject to government guidelines.

How does preschool education support school readiness?

Quality preschool programs help children develop literacy, numeracy, communication, social and emotional skills while building confidence and independence for a successful transition to school.

What preschool program does Oz Education offer?

Oz Education’s preschool and kindergarten program provides children with engaging, play-based learning experiences that support school readiness, confidence, creativity and lifelong learning.

How are children prepared for their transition to school?

Children participate in experiences that promote early literacy, numeracy, problem-solving, communication and social development, helping them build the skills needed for school and beyond.

How can I find out if my family is eligible?

Our team can help you understand the Start Strong Program and provide information about eligibility requirements, funding availability and enrolment options at participating NSW centres.

How do I apply for Start Strong funding?

Families do not usually need to submit a separate application directly through Oz Education. Our team can explain the process and help determine whether funding may be available for your child.

Why choose Oz Education for preschool education?

Oz Education combines play-based learning, experienced educators, school readiness programs and government-supported preschool opportunities to help children learn, grow and thrive during their important early years.