Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan has backed a NSW Coalition commitment to protect community preschools from funding cuts under the NSW Labor Government’s new preschool funding model.
Mr Moylan said Labor’s decision to scrap the successful Start Strong program from 31 December 2026 and replace it with the new Universal Preschool Funding Program would leave many community preschools worse off.
“Labor’s new funding model means less support for community preschools and more uncertainty for families,” Mr Moylan said.
“Preschools are telling us they could be forced to cut staff, reduce educational programs, increase fees for families, or in some cases struggle to remain viable.
“Community preschools play a vital role in preparing children for school, particularly in regional communities. They should be supported, not short-changed.”
Mr Moylan said the Coalition was committed to reversing Labor’s changes and making sure community preschools are not left behind.
“A Coalition Government will bring back the Start Strong program, deliver a fair wage outcome for preschool educators and ensure community preschools receive the support they need to continue delivering high-quality early childhood education,” he said.
“The difference is simple: Labor’s new model leaves community preschools worse off, while the Coalition’s plan protects local services, supports educators and gives families certainty.”
Mr Moylan said local providers across the Northern Tablelands had raised serious concerns about the impact of the new funding arrangements.
“The Start Strong program has been a cornerstone of preschool funding, helping services attract and retain staff, provide quality learning environments and keep costs manageable for families,” he said.
“I spent around seven years on the board of my family’s community preschool and saw firsthand just how important these services are to local families and communities.
“They do an incredible job giving children the best possible start in life.
“Under Labor, community preschools stand to lose out. Under the Coalition, they will be protected and supported.
“Our commitment is straightforward: community preschools should be better off, not worse off.”