Preschool Funding in South Australia
South Australian Government funding to support access to preschool
The Flying Start government initiative is expanding access to preschool for three-year-old children across the state, enabling more children to benefit from quality early learning before they start school.
As Flying Start is rolled out, eligible children can access a government-approved preschool program – just like our two-year Flying Start to School program – delivered by participating preschools and long day care providers.
Research consistently shows that participation in preschool can have lasting benefits for children’s learning, development and future outcomes.
What is Flying Start?
Flying Start is the South Australian Government’s initiative to introduce preschool for three-year-old children across the state.
This major initiative is being progressively rolled out, with more children gaining access to funded preschool each year.
Flying Start aims to ensure every child can participate in a quality preschool program during the critical years before school, supporting their learning, development and wellbeing.
Who can access Flying Start?
Flying Start is being introduced in stages across South Australia.
Eligibility and availability may vary depending on your child’s age, where you live and whether your chosen provider is participating in the initiative.
Families should speak with their preschool or long day care provider to learn more about eligibility and availability.
Can I access Flying Start through long day care?
Yes – which makes Guardian the ideal choice for families.
Participating long day care providers can deliver the same Government-approved preschool program available through sessional preschool services.
For many families, accessing preschool through long day care provides the added convenience of longer opening hours, consistent care arrangements and a familiar learning environment for children.
Flying Start at Guardian
Selected Guardian centres in South Australia currently participate in the Flying Start initiative, with more to follow:
From Jan 2026
From Term 3, 2026
From Jan 2027
Eligible children can access Guardian’s government-approved Flying Start to School preschool program, delivered by qualified Early Childhood Teachers and embedded within our long day care setting.
This provides families with the benefits of a high-quality preschool program alongside the flexibility and convenience of long day care.
For more information please visit: Office for Early Childhood Development