Children in Diamond Creek will have the chance to learn and play in the great outdoors, thanks to an expansion of bush kinder programs by the Allan Labor Government.

Member for Eltham Vicki Ward recently announced two local kindergartens – Occasional Child Care Centre Diamond Creek and Ness Reserve Preschool - will receive $6000 grants to offer a bush kinder program beginning Term 3, 2024.

Bush kinders are delivered outdoors at places including parks, bushland and beaches - giving children a unique opportunity and freedom to learn through play with natural materials.

The grants will help kindergartens buy the equipment they need to run programs that focus on getting outside, playing with natural materials, and learning through activities such as climbing trees and watching wildlife.

The Labor Government is investing $3.6 million over four years to expand bush kinder programs in up to 600 kindergarten services across Victoria.

Through our nation-leading $14 billion Best Start, Best Life reforms over the next decade, the Allan Labor Government is transforming kindergartens to give every Victorian child the best start to life, save families time and money, and support parents to return to work or study if they choose.

Applications for the 2025 round of another 150 bush kinder grants will open in the second half of 2024.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eltham Vicki Ward

“Kinder is about giving our littlest ones the best start to life. That’s why we’re supporting Ness Reserve Preschool and Occasional Child Care Centre Diamond Creek to start bush kinder programs, providing more children with opportunities to get outdoors and learn in a natural environment.”

“Out here in Diamond Valley we have gorgeous natural bushland. These bush kinder programs are not just fun and educational, they help keep kids active and connect them with local bush reserves – boosting their health, wellbeing and development.”