Investing in preschool infrastructure
The Government of South Australia is investing in preschool infrastructure to support the roll-out of 3-year-old preschool from 2026.
The Preschool Infrastructure Strategy, released in December 2024, details how the government will work with the sector to deliver new and expanded early childhood infrastructure where it’s needed, so all children can access 2 years of preschool by 2032.
A key commitment is to open a grant program that co-invests in additional infrastructure capacity where necessary across the state. The Flying Start Infrastructure Grants program is investing $40 million over 4 years to support the sector to deliver new or expanded facilities in areas with projected unmet demand for preschool.
This investment – in addition to expanding government preschools where needed, and readying government services to welcome 3-year-olds – will achieve the additional preschool capacity needed for the roll-out of 3-year-old preschool in South Australia. This funding will support the expansion of preschool places in long day care services and sessional preschools and the establishment of newly built long day care services offering preschool.
Round 1 of the Flying Start Infrastructure Grants program is now open. Applications can be made through Smartygrants before 11.59pm on 2 May 2025.
Applicants need to read the Flying Start Infrastructure Grants guidelines to understand the process and requirements before applying.
Support to apply
To help the sector understand areas of unmet demand, a Market Information Summary is available. These identified geographical areas of unmet demand are our priority areas for investment through the Flying Start Infrastructure Grants. Applicants located outside these areas who can provide compelling evidence of unmet demand at a local level are also encouraged to apply.
To assist organisations in delivering infrastructure projects, the Office for Early Childhood Development (OECD) has released a comprehensive Guidance Pack.
This resource provides step-by-step instructions on how to plan, design and deliver early childhood infrastructure projects, and will support applicants in preparing their Stage 1 and 2 grant applications.
Additionally, some applicants may be eligible for Guidance Services. These services, provided free of charge by the OECD’s Sector Supports Partner, offer coaching and advice for applicants to navigate each stage of the process. To check if you are eligible for these services, please complete the Flying Start Infrastructure Grants Guidance Services Questionnaire.
Have a question?
If you have a question after reviewing the details on this website and our FAQs, please contact oecd.infrastructure@sa.gov.au