Applications for 2022 kindergarten registrations are open

Children who attend educational play-based kindergarten develop lifelong skills that build their confidence, enhance their social and language skills, expand their physical abilities and are prepared for schooling.  

Did you know that in Cardinia Shire kindergartens will be offering two years of funded kindergarten programs? If your child turns 3 years of age by 30 April 2022, they are eligible to attend the 1st year of the funded kindergarten program. If your child turns 4 years of age by 30 April 2022, they are eligible to attend the 2nd year of the funded kindergarten program. 

In Cardinia Shire, Council provides a central registration portal for both years for kindergarten programs offered in Council facilities. 

Two new kindergartens at Rix Road, Officer and Pink Hill Boulevard, Officer have recently been added to the portal.  

Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Councillor Brett Owen said kindergarten was an essential part of social and personal development for children. 

“Kindergarten helps to develop language skills, problem-solving abilities and self-confidence,” Cr Owen said.   

“Research shows that great early education leads to better health, education and employment outcomes later in life, so we’d love to see local families enrol their children in kindergarten in Cardinia Shire.” 

1st year of funded kindergarten 

The 1st year of funded kindergarten (previously known as three-year-old kindergarten program) from 2022 will also be partially funded by the Victorian Government for up to 5-hours per week for eligible children who are three years-old on or before 30 April in the year they attend kindergarten.   

Children who have not yet turned three years of age in the year they attend their first funded year of kindergarten can attend the service if the service is able to meet the required ratios. Services can work with families of children born between January and April to decide whether to enrol their children in the year they turn three, or the following year. 

First-round offers for 1st year of funded kindergarten places in 2022 will be sent to parents from Monday 6 September 2021. 

2nd year of funded kindergarten 

The 2nd year of funded kindergarten (previously known as four-year-old kindergarten program) is partially funded by the Victorian Government. The Victorian Government provides up to 15-hours per week of kindergarten services for eligible children who are four years-old on or before 30 April in the year they attend kindergarten. Other subsidies may be available. 

First-round offers for 2nd year of funded kindergarten places in 2022 will be sent to parents from Monday 2 August 2021. 

Registrations 

Registrations are completed online using Council’s Central Registration Portal, which provides an easy, step-by-step process for parents. 

Registrations received after 5pm on Wednesday 30 June 2021 will be processed in later rounds and throughout the year as places become available or as required. 

For more information about kindergarten registration, visit Council’s website at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/kindergarten or call 1300 787 624