NSW preschools brace for 15 to 20 percent funding cuts under new model
NSW community preschools say the new funding model will cut their budgets from 2027, with some losing tens of thousands of dollars.
NSW community preschools are bracing for sharp funding cuts under the Universal Preschool Funding Program announced this year. East Maitland Preschool director Jodie Cox and about 200 others rallied in Cessnock calling for urgent changes.
Cox says the new model is complex. When she entered her figures into the government's tool, her two preschools faced major losses.
George Street preschool would lose $15,742 in 2027 and $39,354 in 2028. Brunswick Street could lose $53,075 in 2027 and $132,000 in 2028.
Other Hunter preschools expect losses ranging from $187,000 to more than $400,000 without transition funding. The government argues the model incentivises services to take more children and addresses long waitlists.
The Independent Education Union says the changes could force staff cuts and reduce training budgets.
- 700
- NSW community preschools
- 15 to 20 percent
- Expected funding reduction
- 132,000 dollars
- Brunswick Street projected loss 2028
- About 200
- Rally attendance
Why it mattersFunding cuts will squeeze preschool services and staff, affecting thousands of Australian children.
AustraliaNSW families with preschool-aged children may face reduced hours, larger class sizes, or service closures as non-profit centres struggle financially.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
