The Allan Labor Government is helping 150 more kindergartens take kids outdoors to learn in nature with new funding doubling the number of bush kinder grants across the state. 

Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh today announced Meeniyan Preschool would receive $6,000 to hold their weekly Bush Kinder session at the Meeniyan Rec Reserve. 

Bush kinder is run in parks, bushland and beaches, giving children the opportunity to explore and develop curiosities through activities such as climbing trees, playing with natural materials and watching wildlife. 

One-off $6,000 grants help kindergartens buy the items and equipment they need to run programs. The Labor Government is investing $3.6 million over four years to expand bush kinder programs in up to 600 kinder services across Victoria. 

The educational program builds on findings that regular outdoor play delivers significant benefits for a child’s learning and development, including their physical and mental health and wellbeing. 

Children who experience bush kinder develop greater confidence and capabilities while learning how to recognise and manage risks in new environments. They also gain a deeper understanding of science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts in a hands-on way. 

The Bush Kinder Grants Program funds kindergartens to establish or enhance a bush kinder program in a local natural space. Kindergartens without access to a suitable off-site location can use their grant funding to improve the biodiversity of their existing outdoor environment. 

Funding in this round of grants is allowing bush kinder programs to be established at 43 regional kindergartens and 107 metropolitan kindergartens across 53 local government areas. 

Visit vic.gov.au/bush-kinder-grants-program to find out which kinders will be starting a bush kinder program. 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn 

“We all want the best for our kids and teaching them about the great outdoors is good for their wellbeing, physical development and connection to nature.”  

“Kids have so much to learn from regular bush, beach and park-based kinder programs, where each visit offers new opportunities to learn about and discover our great outdoors.” 

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh 

“Getting kids outside learning in the open air is one of the best things we can do for the wellbeing of the next generation.”  

“Bush kinder allows more kids to learn outside, growing in confidence and curiosity.” 

Quote attributable to Meeniyan Preschool Educator Michelle Tumino 

“At Meeniyan Preschool, we believe in the power of nature to nurture creativity, resilience, and a deep connection to our environment. Our weekly Bush Kinder sessions at the Meeniyan Rec Reserve offer children the chance to build a strong sense of belonging—connecting with country, community, and each other.”
 
“By stepping away from traditional toys, they learn to engage with their imagination, fostering independence and a sense of pride in the natural world around them.”