Community and mobile preschools can apply for grants to expand their services, allow for more childcare places or construct new community preschools.

Wollondilly MP Jai Rowell encouraged the services to submit applications under the state government Start Strong Capital Works Grants program.

“These grants are vital to ensuring services in Wollondilly can invest in the right infrastructure to support more children in having access to early childhood education – because our kids deserve it and parents expect it,” he said.

He said the services gave kids social, cognitive and emotional skills to transition.

“We know the success of a child’s education on their last day of school is determined by their very first day of school. That’s why we’re investing in innovative approaches to improve access to quality early childhood education, no matter where you live.”

Grants are open to not-for-profit community preschools and mobile preschools operating in areas of the state where there is a demonstrated shortage of places.

Applications are open until August 18.

For more information, visit the Department of Education website at www.dec.nsw.gov.au/what-we-offer/regulation-and-accreditation/early-childhood-education-care/funding/start-strong/capital-works-grants-program