A further $3 million has been invested to extend the Kindy Care trial, a preschool out of school hours (OSHC) program that helps support working families across South Australia.

The Kindy Care trials are currently underway at 20 government preschools across the state, testing how different models of out of hours preschool care can operate in a way that supports continuity for children and flexibility for families.

The extra investment will enable the Kindy Care trials to continue into 2026, building on the early findings and feedback from educators and families participating in the program.

Kindy Care was introduced in response to a recommendation from the Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care, which found that sessional preschool models – typically operating from 9am to 3pm – do not meet the needs of many working families.

While many families rely on OSHC for school-aged children, these services are often not designed or equipped to accommodate preschoolers.

Kindy Care offers a developmentally appropriate alternative within a familiar preschool environment, helping reduce transitions throughout the day.

The program is focused on giving children a stable, supportive, experience while offering parents greater flexibility to participate in the workforce.