The department has committed $89.54 million over 4 years to the Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO)-led ECEC Sector Growth Partnership program (AGP), which will increase the number of quality, culturally responsive early learning places for children.

This partnership will further strengthen the sustainability of the ACCO-led early learning sector, while also growing the Aboriginal early learning workforce and uplifting service quality and provision. It is a core element of the First Steps Strategy 2026–2030, and its $89.54 million investment over 4 years will be delivered through the Childcare and Economic Opportunity Fund.

Through this initiative Stream 1 will allow both existing ACCO-led early learning services, and ACCOs that are entering the early learning sector, to access of up to $800,000 in needs-based expansion support, which can be allocated to substantial infrastructure projects.

Stream 2 will provide existing ACCO-led early learning services access of up to $120,000 in support, which can be allocated to staffing, minor capital works, resources, and language and cultural programs.

Stream 3 will provide $50,000 for one year to assist ACCOs’ progress towards becoming approved early learning providers.

To apply for the program, visit the program guidelines.

To learn more, visit the frequently asked questions.