From next year, thousands of three-year-old children will have access to kindergarten services at more than 200 locations throughout South Australia. 

The state government announced the locations today, with a phased implementation of the program scheduled to commence in term four of this year, initially focusing on Elizabeth Vale and Port Pirie. 

These areas have been identified as particularly vulnerable. 

Following the initial phase, the program will extend to include metropolitan, regional, and remote areas of South Australia.

“A combination of government-run centres and privately run centres will start providing 15 hours a week of free three-year-old preschool,” Premier Peter Malinauskas said.

Families are already expressing enthusiasm about the program.

“Super excited that this flying start program will get in early and help kids build their confidence and their skills so they can be good little humans,” parent Matt Lucas said.

Meanwhile, the government has dismissed concerns raised by the state opposition that there aren’t enough staff to take on the new kids.

“I can tell you we are on target to have the workforce that we need to be able to offer three-year-old preschool next year,” Education Minister Blair Boyer said.

The government is aiming to provide universal access to kindergarten for all South Australian three-year-olds by 2032.