Starting Kindergarten
When to Start Kindergarten
Your child can start kindergarten if they turn three or four by 30 April in the year they attend. All children are eligible to attend two years of funded kindergarten in the two years before starting school.
For children born between 1 January and 30 April, it is recommended to consider what age you would like your child to start Primary School, and work backwards.
The table below shows when a child is eligible to access three- and four-year-old kindergarten. Or you can use the online calculator here.
| Child's Date of Birth | Eligible for Three-Year-Old Kindergarten | Eligible for Four-Year-Old Kindergarten | Primary School |
| 1 May 2021 to 30 April 2022 | 2025 | 2026 | 2027 |
| 1 May 2022 to 30 April 2023 | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 |
| 1 May 2023 to 30 April 2024 | 2027 | 2028 | 2029 |
If you're unsure about the best time for your child to start kindergarten, you can speak to:
- A kindergarten teacher/educator.
- Maternal and Child Health.
- Preschool Field Officer.
You can also contact our Kindergarten Central Registration team on 5662 9200 or kinder@southgippsland.vic.gov.au
Note: Some children may be eligible for a third year of funded three- or four-year-old kindergarten. Please ask us for details.