2026 Inclusive Environments Funding Program - Quarter 4 Payments
Description
Funding is available to Community Preschools for minor construction and specialised equipment or furniture to enable children with disability and additional needs to participate in the educational program on the same basis as their peers.
Requirements Summary
Community preschools receiving NSW Start Strong or Mobile Preschool funding are eligible to apply for Inclusive Environments funding to support children with disability and additional needs. Applications require descriptions of children's needs, professional supporting evidence, links to Individual Learning Plans, and itemised quotes. Funding of up to $5,000 per child is available for specialised equipment/furniture, and up to $20,000 per child for minor construction. Applications open 23 May 2026 and close 14 August 2026 at 5:00 pm. Applications are submitted through the Early Childhood Contract Management System (ECCMS).
Eligibility Criteria
Community preschools must be receiving funding under NSW Start Strong for Community Preschools or Mobile Preschool Funding Program
Child must be at least 3 years old on or before 31 July in that preschool year, or turn 3 after 31 July with demonstrated exceptional circumstances
Child must have constant and ongoing support needs requiring significant adjustments, OR temporary illness/injury requiring short term adjustment to participate in the educational program
Up to $5,000 per child for specialised equipment/furniture; up to $20,000 per child for minor construction; funding above $5,000 requires exceptional circumstances approval
Assessment Criteria
Applications assessed against eligibility criteria and assessment requirements outlined in 2026 IE Funding Program Guidelines
Timeline
Applications open for the 2026 Inclusive Environments Funding Program - Quarter 4 Payments
Application deadline at 5:00 pm
Applications assessed by NSW Department of Education; providers notified of outcomes via email
Priority Cohorts
The Department of Education funds and administers the Inclusive Environments program, a component of the Disability and Inclusion Program for NSW Community Preschools
ecec.funding@det.nsw.edu.au