- Status:
- Open, closes 22 September 2025
- Who can apply:
- Not-for-profit groups, government
Applications for the equipment grants are open until 11:59pm, Monday 25 August 2025.
Applications for the buildings and playgrounds grants are open until 11:59pm, Monday 22 September 2025.
Categories of grants
- Buildings and playgrounds: These grants fund infrastructure upgrades of up to $200,000 to make kindergarten activities safer, more inclusive and accessible to children of all abilities.
- Equipment: These are grants of up to $10,000 for moveable inclusive education equipment, such as mobility stools and sensory equipment for kindergarten programs.
Information sessions
The Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) will hold a number of online information sessions about the Building Blocks Inclusion grants application process.
Session dates:
- Thursday 31 July at 1pm
- Wednesday 6 August 1pm
- Tuesday 12 August 1pm
Register for your preferred session on the TryBooking website.
Featured projects
Take a look at some of our completed Building Blocks Inclusion grant projects:
- Assisi Kindergarten Strathfieldsaye
- Belgrave Heights Christian School Early Learning Centre
- Renown Kindergarten
Early childhood grant updates
Subscribe to our mailing list to get the latest updates about early childhood grants.
Guidelines
Building Blocks grants are a key pillar of the Victorian Government's Best Start, Best Life reforms.
The grants are supporting the sector by funding a massive program of building, modernising and expanding kindergartens across the state.
This work, backed by new partnerships and record investment, means all Victorian children can now get 2 years of free kinder.
The reforms, and the benefits they bring, will continue to expand over the next few years.
Victorian 3-year-olds can now get at least 5 hours of kindergarten a week. That increases to 15 hours by 2029. Meanwhile, Four-Year-Old Kindergarten is transitioning to ‘Pre-Prep’ – doubling play-based learning for every 4-year-old child in Victoria from 15 to 30 hours a week by 2036.
Since 2015, $3.6 billion has been invested in early childhood infrastructure, with $2.7 billion invested since October 2022. This investment funds around 145 kindergartens across the state as well as the delivery of 35 of the 50 new government owned and operated Early Learning Victoria Centres and $15 million for Building Blocks Improvement and Inclusion grants in the 2025-26 State Budget.
Building Blocks grants are key to evaluating the best projects to realise the government’s vision and achieve best value for this significant public investment.
In particular, the inclusion grants stream outlined below is making our kindergarten buildings and playgrounds more accessible, safer, and better equipped for children of all abilities.
See "What type of grant can I apply for?" below for further details on the funding streams and amounts available.
The Building Blocks Inclusion stream provides funding to kindergartens to upgrade early childhood buildings and facilities (including playgrounds), and purchase equipment to provide safe and more inclusive environments for children of all abilities.
Funding is designed to:
- increase engagement, improve learning outcomes and strengthen safety and inclusive early childhood learning environments for children of all abilities
- promote inclusion in early childhood teaching approaches that are tailored to the needs of all learners
- create innovative early childhood learning environments based on inclusive and universal design best practice.
Projects must be for a funded kindergarten in Victoria that is, or will be, licensed to provide a funded Three and Four-Year-Old Kindergarten program (Free Kinder) for 4 years from project completion. The kindergarten must offer or intend to offer both programs. This can be sessional or integrated with long day care.
More information on eligibility, merit criteria and the application process are available below.
Inclusion Assessment Factsheet and Application Checklist
It is important that applicants read these guidelines in conjunction with the Building Blocks Inclusion Assessment Factsheet and Application Checklist, which can be found on this webpage.
Applications cannot be considered for funding where:
- the organisation does not meet the eligibility criteria
- the organisation does not provide all the required documentation at application stage, such as soil and asbestos reports (where required).
There are 2 categories of grants under the Building Blocks Inclusion stream:
- Buildings and Playgrounds
- Equipment
Grant type Buildings and Playgrounds Purpose Buildings and Playgrounds grants fund improvements to early childhood buildings and facilities to provide safe and more inclusive environments for children of all abilities. Funding is for fixed fittings and equipment. Funding available Up to $200,000 per grant (GST exclusive) Note: applications require 2 quotes from 2 separate qualified professionals for projects less than $200,000 OR 1 Quantity Surveyor (QS) report for projects over $200,000 or more. Co-contribution Applicants do not have to co-contribute. Department of Education (DE) owned Land Applicants must submit a completed Land Use Proposal Form to support their application for a project on DE owned land.
Applications for projects on DE owned land that are high value and/or deemed high risk may be delivered by the VSBA.
Project completion/acquittal Within 12 months of executing a Victorian Common Funding Agreement (VCFA) with DE. Payment of grants Payments provided in 4 milestone instalments. Grant type Equipment Purpose Equipment grants fund the purchase of inclusive educational equipment for kindergarten programs. Funding is for non-fixed equipment (for example non-fixed to buildings). Funding available Up to $10,000 per grant (GST exclusive). Note: applications require 1 supplier quote. Co-contribution Applicants do not have to co-contribute. Project completion/acquittal Within 3 months of executing a VCFA with DE. Payment of grants Payment provided in 1 up front instalment. Buildings and Playgrounds
What can be funded What cannot be funded - project management costs
- planning and design costs that result in a completed playground or building upgrade
- site preparation, including clearing or demolition (if the proposed project is on land owned by DE, you must contact the Early Childhood Grants team before applying to confirm how these costs can be funded)
- construction and commissioning
- landscaping and accessible car parking
- fixed fittings and fixed equipment
- a soil contamination assessment, completed before the application is submitted*
- a Division 6 Asbestos Audit Assessment completed before the application is submitted*
*Provided it is within scope of the state’s financial contribution for this grant stream and quotes are included at application stage.
- site acquisition and lease costs
- planning and design costs that do not result in a completed playground or building upgrade
- routine or cyclical maintenance works
- purchase of cars, buses and other vehicles
- ongoing administration or operational costs including volunteer committee costs, staff salaries and training
- removal of contaminates on project sites (for example asbestos/ arsenic, lead), following announcement of the grant
- additional funding due to project cost overruns
- information technology costs
- non-fixed furniture and specialist disability equipment for example specialist chairs and toilet frames
- reimbursement for work already started or completed
Equipment
What can be funded What cannot be funded - moveable and accessible equipment, such as:
- ramps to support transition between play areas and entry/exit to services
- safety surfacing (for example soft fall mats) and indoor/outdoor gross motor skill equipment such as climbing frames and balancing boards
- indoor/outdoor sensory equipment and resources
- adjustable furniture, such as inclusion tables, change tables, mobility stools, toilet frames/steps, walking frames
- wadding/protective padding for building structures for example around veranda posts
- information technology equipment, assistive technology, software or subscriptions for example laptops, tablets, bee-bots, interactive screens and robotics
- non-moveable (for example permanently fixed to buildings) and non-inclusive equipment such as dryers, mirrors and shelving
- reimbursement for equipment already purchased
- first aid medical, toiletries and other sanitary items for example nappies
- electronic devices such as kitchen, cooking and plants/garden appliances for example air fryers, leaf blowers, water pumps and generators
- shade sails
- artwork
- clothing and footwear
- ongoing administration or operational costs including staff salaries and training, office furniture and maintenance costs
The Building Blocks Inclusion stream will not fund projects that:
- are not located at a funded kindergarten service(s) at time of application
- are not at facilities which offer (or are intending to offer) both Three-Year-Old and Four-Year-Old Funded Kindergarten programs
- do not agree to deliver Free Kinder for at least 4 years after the completion of the grant project
- are located outside Victoria
- do not align with the program objectives
- do not meet the requirements outlined in these guidelines
- do not meet the assessment criteria or include all the required costings and documentation (such as soil, asbestos or Quantity Surveyor reports) at time of application
- have already started, or been completed (for example retrospective funding).
Your organisation can apply if it is:
- a Victorian local government (Council)
- a not-for-profit community organisation that is a legal entity (for example an incorporated association, incorporated cooperative or Indigenous corporation)
- a Victorian government school
- a Victorian non-government school registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority or Victorian Catholic Education Authority.
Victorian kindergarten providers with a funded kindergarten service(s) at the time of application are eligible to receive funding. For-profit organisations cannot apply for any grant streams within Building Blocks.
For further information regarding eligibility, please refer to the Inclusion Assessment Factsheet and Application Checklist on this webpage.
If you propose a Buildings and Playgrounds project on land owned by DE, you must advise the Early Childhood Grants team and DE’s relevant regional provision and planning manager as early as possible during the development of your proposal. This is required to discuss the approach to land and project delivery should they be successful.
Applications for projects on DE land must also include:
- a completed Land Use Proposal Form including:
- a copy of any existing lease or agreement between relevant parties
- a detailed design of your proposal
- 2 quotes from a qualified professional for projects below $75,000 (GST inclusive) or 3 quotes for projects exceeding $75,000 (GST inclusive)
- structural assessment reports (if works are proposed to a roof i.e. solar installations or extensions of roof line or roof upgrades).
- a mark-up of a School Plan (previously Schools Asset Management Plan) or Site Plan indicating clearly where the proposed works will be carried out.
Building Blocks Grants – Land Use Proposal Form 2025(opens in a new window)Word 106.53 KBIf the project is located on DE land, DE will procure a Quantity Surveyor report and, where necessary, a Division 6 Asbestos Report, Soil Hygiene Report and/ or Geo-Tech Reporting.
Applications for projects on DE owned land that are high value and/or deemed high risk or especially complicated may be delivered by DE.
The Early Childhood Grants team can be contacted by email: building.blocks@education.vic.gov.au.
- a completed Land Use Proposal Form including:
DE will not consider late or incomplete applications.
A Building Blocks Inclusion Assessment Factsheet and Application Checklist can be found on this webpage. Please refer to this factsheet before preparing your application.
Funding recommendations will be based on the extent to which you can demonstrate that your project addresses the following assessment criteria. These are weighted according to specified percentages, which align with Building Blocks Inclusion stream objectives:
Buildings and Playgrounds
- Demonstrate how the proposed works (60%):
- upgrade or maintain infrastructure to enable children with all abilities to participate in an inclusive kindergarten learning environment
- support teaching approaches that promote inclusion
- Demonstrate how the proposed works support the seven universal design principles (20%)
- Demonstrate how the proposed works promote environmental sustainability (10%)
- Demonstrate project readiness, including provision of all required documentation and overall completeness of the application (10%).
Equipment
- Demonstrate how the proposed purchases enable children with all abilities to participate in an inclusive kindergarten learning environment and/or increases safety (100%).
- Demonstrate how the proposed works (60%):
DE will assess the applicant’s past performance to determine whether this is likely to have an impact on the successful delivery of the proposed project. Considerations include:
- timely delivery of former Building Blocks grants awarded to the organisation
- active projects funded via the Building Blocks program and whether time extensions have been requested and approved
- submission and compliance of mandatory monthly reports to DE
- providing all documentation required to acquit the grant within the contracted time frame
- taking the appropriate measures to inform DE when an unforeseen circumstance occurs, that could result in a time, cost or scope change.
Poor performance against these factors can result in projects not being recommended for funding.
Please read the Building Blocks Inclusion Assessment Factsheet and Application Checklist which can be found on this webpage to understand when these reports are required.
Following the assessment process, DE provides recommendations to the Minister for Children for formal approval. Applicants will be advised of any prolonged delays in notification of grant outcomes.
Eligible projects will be recommended for funding based primarily on their rating against the Merit Assessment Criteria. However, the number and value of eligible, highly rated applications may exceed the total available funding, therefore DE will consider other factors including whether:
- a service has received recent Building Blocks grant funding
- the proposed project increases approved kindergarten places
- the proposed project is deemed a priority upgrade for the facility, that increases safety, compliance, and helps keep the kindergarten continue operating into the future
- a service is in an area of demand or an area of projected demand for funded kindergarten places.
The minister reserves the right to provide strategic investment to projects. The minister may also, on advice from DE provide funding to partners in exceptional circumstances to support the provision of funded Three-Year-Old and Four-Year-Old Kindergarten services across the state.
Organisations that receive a grant must:
- agree to the requirements outlined in these guidelines (failure to do so may result in funding being withheld)
- enter into a formal Victorian Common Funding Agreement (VCFA) with DE
- not enter a contract or commence any works proposed in an application until a VCFA has been executed with DE
- where applicable, follow the Building Blocks Acknowledgement and Publicity Guidelines, including:
- liaising with DE and holding events on requests, such as sod turns and openings
- erecting signage for projects valued at over $250,000
- offering the government’s representative the opportunity to attend and open the completed project, as well as any project-related events, noting that 3 months’ notice must be given for sod turns and official openings by contacting building.blocks@education.vic.gov.au(opens in a new window).
- submit monthly progress reports through an online reporting system
- submit an acquittal form and the required supporting evidence for approval by DE upon completion of the project
- agree that no additional DE state funding will be allocated to the proposed project and if additional costs arise, they must be met by the applicant
- advise DE of any service closures prior to receipt of outcome
- consent to DE delivering their project if on DE land, as decided by DE.
For more information on reporting and acquittal requirements, refer to ‘Project reporting requirements’ and ‘Acquittal requirements and project variations’ on this webpage.
To remain eligible for funding, you must not enter a contract or commence any works proposed in your application before we inform you of the application outcome.
Before submitting your application, we encourage you to review the following documents which further clarify your obligations for receiving Building Blocks funding:
The Betrayal of Trust Report found that survivors of institutional child abuse were sometimes unable to identify an appropriate legal entity to sue.
The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse also recommended that governments consider requiring organisations they fund to be insured against child abuse.
From 1 July 2019, non-government organisations funded by the Victorian Government to deliver services to children will be required, as a condition of funding to be:
- incorporated separate legal entities that can be sued in their own right in child abuse proceedings
- appropriately insured against child abuse.
The new requirements will improve the ability of child abuse survivors to bring a legal claim for compensation and ensure that successful claims can be paid.
There are other grant programs that provide funding for the development of early childhood facilities and services. DE must be advised of other funding applications for your project. We reserve the right to consider grant applications made for other programs, offered by DE or other government departments, and to submit Inclusion stream applications to other department agency led grant programs for consideration for funding under those programs where appropriate.
For Buildings and Playgrounds grants, a qualified and experienced project manager must be identified at the time of application and appointed within four weeks of the funding announcement.
Project reporting requirements
As a condition of funding for Buildings and Playgrounds grants, successful applicants must comply with project monitoring and reporting requirements, including:
- monthly status reports through an online reporting system to provide an update on progress, updating proposed, forecast, and actual dates for project milestones, flagging risks and issues, and providing the required evidence when payment milestones have been met
- advising DE in advance of milestones including architect appointment, design completion, sod turn and construction completion and providing opportunities for public communication of these milestones
- advising DE of scope changes (relating to time, cost, and project scope) by completing and submitting a Request for Variation (RFV) form via an online reporting system
- site inspections, meetings and teleconferences with DE staff or representatives if required
- production of building contracts, receipts and/or invoices when requested
- acquittal through an online reporting system.
As a condition of funding for Equipment grants, successful applicants must comply with project monitoring and reporting requirements, including:
- advising DE of scope changes (relating to time, cost, and project scope) by completing and submitting a Request for Variation (RFV) form via an online reporting system
- site inspections, meetings and teleconferences DE staff or representatives if required
- production of receipts and/or invoices when requested
- acquittal through an online reporting system.
All successful applicants are required to upload information into DE’s reporting system to complete their acquittal.
Recipient organisations must contact DE immediately if they:
- require a project extension
- propose a change in project scope
- propose a change in project costs which results in either an overspend or underspend.
Applicants will be required to complete a RFV (which will be submitted through an online reporting system), together with detailed evidence that explains the reason for the variation.
The applicant may be asked to allocate any underspend towards additional eligible items in line with the guidelines before an acquittal is accepted. Overspends remain the responsibility of the organisation.
Further information on acquittal requirements and variation requests can be found in the frequently asked questions.
Application forms can be accessed online through SmartyGrants. Applicants must be registered to use the Smarty Grants application system. Registration is free.
For assistance with the online application system, please email the Smarty Grants Support Desk on service@smartygrants.com.au or call on 03 9320 6888 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday. You can also consult the help guide.
If you are unsuccessful in obtaining funding for a Building Blocks Inclusion grant you may:
- contact the Early Childhood grants team for feedback on your application and outcome
- seek a review into the assessment of your application.
The Early Childhood Grants team can be contacted by email at building.blocks@education.vic.gov.au.
Before applying, please read the Building Blocks Inclusion Assessment Factsheet and Application Checklist which can be found on this webpage.
This factsheet contains important information about your grant application.
Please also read the Frequently Asked Questions.
If you have any queries, contact the Early Childhood Grants team at building.blocks@education.vic.gov.au.
The information you provide will be dealt with in accordance with the Public Records Act 1973 and the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014.
We have designed this factsheet to help you complete your Building Blocks Inclusion grant application.
This document should be read in conjunction with the Building Blocks Inclusion Guidelines found on this webpage.
After reading this document you should:
- have a clear understanding of what information you need to include in your application
- understand how your application will be assessed after it has been submitted.
Important information to consider before applying
Examples of items that can and cannot be funded
For a list of items that can and cannot be funded, refer to the Building Blocks Inclusion Guidelines found on this webpage.
A list of example projects that may be funded can be found in this factsheet in Appendix A.
Projects on Department of Education (DE) owned land
If you propose a Buildings and Playgrounds project on land owned by DE you must advise the VSBA Early Childhood Grants team and DE’s relevant regional Provision and Planning Manager as early as possible during the development of your proposal. This is required to discuss the approach to land and project delivery should you be successful.
The VSBA Early Childhood Grants team can be contacted by email: building.blocks@education.vic.gov.au.
The relevant DE regional Provision and Planning Manager can be found here. It is important to start this process as early as possible prior to submitting your application.
Applications for projects on DE land must include:
- a completed Land Use Proposal Form found on this webpage
- all required documentation as listed in the Land Use Proposal Form.
If a project is located on DE owned land, DE will procure a Quantity Surveyor report and, where necessary, a Division 6 Asbestos Report, Soil Hygiene Report and/ or Geo-Tech Reporting.
Applications for projects on DE owned land that are high value and/or deemed high risk or especially complicated may be delivered by DE.
DE will determine whether any project on DE land is delivered by the applicant or the VSBA. Successful applicants will be consulted regarding the approach for delivery.
Prospective applicants interested in undertaking projects on DE owned land are strongly advised to attend the grant information session to gain a thorough understanding of the specific requirements for these projects. The session times will be advised on the VSBA website. Attending the session will ensure applicants are well-informed and prepared to meet all criteria for funding and project implementation on DE land.
Documents required to support your application
Two documents that require the most time to secure are the Soil Hygienist Report and the Divisional 6 Asbestos Audit Report. Your application will not proceed to assessment until these documents are supplied.
These documents must not be more than 10 years old at the time of submission.
Applications for projects on DE land are not required to provide a soil hygienist or asbestos report. DE will complete this requirement following the submission of your application.
Soil Hygienist Report
A Soil Hygienist Report is required for any project that disturbs the soil (including installation of outdoor shade sails) to determine suitability of the kindergarten site.
It is important that an environmental professional is engaged to provide a Soil Hygienist Report – and not a geotechnical report. If applicable to your project, a Soil Hygienist Report must be included in your grant application.
Soil Hygienist Reports must:
- be performed by a qualified environmental professional
- align with standards such as the National Environmental Protection (Assessment of Contaminated Sites) Measure (NEPM)
- involve a desktop review of past site history and soil investigation samples for analysis of contaminants such as arsenic, asbestos, and heavy metals with particular focus on where project soil works are proposed
- compare contamination results against NEPM human health and ecological investigation levels as well as Victoria EPA Industrial Waste thresholds
- include a statement to indicate if the site is suitable for use as an early learning centre and/or potential project risks
- specify if contaminated soil is identified above the levels specified for use as an early learning centre.
If contaminated soil is identified above the levels specified for the use as an early learning centre, a Soil Management Plan (SMP) must be developed for safe management or removal and disposal of the contaminated soil. The SMP must also be provided as part of your grant application.
Examples of consultants who specialise in soil hygienist testing and site assessment are listed below:
- Australian Contaminated Land Consultants Association
- The State Government Construction Supply Register under Contamination Testing category.
Division 6 Asbestos Audit Report
A Division 6 Asbestos Audit Report is site specific and is required for any project that involves work to a building constructed before 1990, where the fabric of the building will be disturbed. If applicable to your project, a Division 6 Asbestos Audit Report must be included in your grant application.
Division 6 Asbestos Audit Reports must:
- be performed by a trained professional such as an Occupational Hygienist
- contain the results of a visual and invasive inspection of a building to monitor and identify Asbestos Containing Material (ACM)
- include the logged results of the asbestos audit in an asbestos register, which is to be updated following all subsequent audit reports and removal works
Please note that a Division 5 Asbestos Audit Report will not be accepted.
If ACM is discovered in a building or site, an Asbestos Management Plan for removal and disposal of the ACM must be developed and provided as part of your grant application.
Information and examples of consultants who specialises in asbestos and site assessment, are listed at:
- The State Government Construction Supply Register under Contamination Testing category
- WorkSafe Victoria.
Division 6 Asbestos Audit Reports are not required for works to buildings constructed from 1990 onwards. Where this is the case, an applicant is required to provide:
- an asbestos report (if one is available) or evidence, such as an occupancy permit or statement from the landowner that the building is not older than 1990
- a letter signed by an authorised representative of the organisation that confirms the applicant will be responsible for any remediation and ongoing management should ACM or other contaminants be discovered during works undertaken at the site.
For further information about asbestos safety, including how to find and identify asbestos, asbestos management and asbestos disposal visit Asbestos Victoria.
Additional resources
The following links are provided as a starting point for considering best practice approaches to inclusion.
Applicants are encouraged to undertake their own research to identify solutions that will meet their needs.
Australian resources
Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority National Quality Framework Department of Education Disability Standards for Education Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework International resources
Centre for Excellence in Universal Design The 7 Principles of Universal Design Health and Education Advice and Resource Team (HEART) Universal Design of Schools and Classrooms The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Including Pupils with Special Educational Needs in Schools in Ireland (OECD) UNICEF The State of the World’s Children – Playgrounds of Inclusion National Centre on Universal Design for Learning Universal Design Guidelines for Learning Assessment process
Building Blocks Inclusion grants are highly competitive. Organisations are encouraged to provide clear responses to all questions, and attach all required documentation at the time of application, to strengthen their chances of being successful.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Once the grant round has closed, DE will commence the following assessment process:
- undertaking an eligibility assessment, to determine if the organisation is eligible to apply (refer to Eligibility and Merit Assessment section below) and ensuring that all required documentation has been provided (refer to the Application Checklist at Appendix B)
- assessing all eligible applications against the merit assessment criteria as outlined in the Building Blocks Inclusion Guidelines.
- convening an assessment panel to oversee funding recommendations and manage any conflicts of interest.
Further project cost assessment may be required in instances where project costs are particularly complex, or clarification is required.
Following the assessment process, DE provides funding recommendations to the Minister for Children for formal approval. Applicants will be advised of any prolonged delays in notification of grant outcomes.
Eligibility and merit assessment
To be eligible to receive funding for a Building Blocks Inclusion grant, your project must be for a facility located in Victoria that is, or will be, licensed to provide a funded Three and Four-Year-Old Kindergarten program (Free Kinder) at the time of application. It must offer, or intend to offer, both programs. This can be sessional or integrated with long day care.
Your organisation can apply if it is:
- a Victorian local government (Council)
- a not-for-profit community organisation that is a legal entity (for example an incorporated association, incorporated cooperative or Indigenous corporation)
- a Victorian government school
- a Victorian non-government school registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority or Catholic Education Commission of Victoria.
For-profit organisations cannot apply for any grant streams within Building Blocks.
It is important to note that eligible projects will be recommended for funding based primarily on their rating against the merit assessment criteria which is weighted according to specified percentages and aligned with the Building Blocks Inclusion stream objectives. However, the number and value of eligible, highly rated applications may exceed the total available funding. Therefore, DE will consider other factors including whether:
- a service has received recent Building Blocks grant funding
- the proposed project increases approved kindergarten places
- the proposed project is deemed a priority upgrade for the facility, that increases safety, compliance, and helps keep the kindergarten continue operating into the future
- a service is in an area of demand or an area of projected demand for funded kindergarten places.
DE will also assess the applicant’s past performance to determine whether this is likely to have an impact on the successful delivery of the proposed project.
All eligibility requirements and merit assessment criteria can be found the Building Blocks Inclusion Guidelines found on this webpage.
Review of application outcome
If you are unsuccessful in obtaining funding for a Building Blocks Inclusion grant you may:
- contact the VSBA Early Childhood Grants team for feedback on your application and outcome
- seek a review into the assessment of your application.
The VSBA Early Childhood Grants team can be contacted by email building.blocks@education.vic.gov.au.
Appendix A – Examples of funded projects
Buildings and playgrounds
Indoor inclusive spaces
Funding may be provided to create learning spaces that engage all children and focus on improving their social and emotional wellbeing.
Projects may include upgrades to improve compliance, safety and increase accessibility that allow disability support access, installation of accessible toilets or floor upgrades where a hazard is present.
Outdoor inclusive spaces, including playgrounds
For some children, a learning place that addresses sensory or learning needs can provide a stimulating environment that they require to support learning. These spaces are areas where children can go voluntarily and remain under supervision. Demonstrating how the outdoor learning spaces will benefit all children and connect with teaching practices will enhance your application.
A key objective under the Supporting Children and Families in the Early Years Compact is that all young children are engaged, confident and creative learners. An accessible and inclusive playground means it is as easy as possible for everyone to play, encouraging all children to be more physically active. Demonstrating how the playground is accessible by all children will enhance your application.
Projects may include upgrades to improve compliance, safety and increase accessibility such as tactile paving, shade safety (where no or limited shade exists) and easily accessible exits and clear pathways.
Acoustic treatments
The ability for a child to hear and understand what is being said in the classroom by the teacher is vital for learning. This ability can be significantly reduced by poor classroom acoustics. There are acoustic treatments that contain and absorb sound, thereby improving class concentration and allowing the teacher’s voice to easily reach all students.
Acoustically treated curtains can be installed in front of windows to reduce external noise in classrooms.
Hardwood flooring reflects rather than absorbs sound. Carpeting classrooms is a sufficient solution to dampen the interior noise of students and movement of furniture.
Installing acoustic panels or a suspended acoustical ceiling cloud (partial ceiling) to the current high ceilings will absorb sound, reducing interior noise within the room.
Accessible ramps
You might need a sloping ramp with slip-resistant strips that provides access to the main entrance and integrates aesthetically with the building. The ramp will benefit those who use wheelchairs or walkers as well as those who may not use equipment but whose balance, strength, or stamina make stair climbing difficult or unsafe. Having the ramp as the main access point for children of all abilities will encourage inclusion and integration.
Two handrails can be installed on both sides of the ramp and continuously around intermediate landings and extend beyond the entry and exit points. The construction of the ramp will make it possible for all individuals to navigate their environments confidently and safely.
Equipment
Multi-play equipment units
Multi-play equipment units are developed to encourage all children to interact within the same play space, can be modified and adjusted to fit all age groups and abilities.
The units can incorporate wheelchair accessible ramps, timber bridges, slides, scramble nets, accessible clamber ramps, climbing frames and sensory play panels.
Primarily these units provide children with challenging physical activity to train their coordination, confidence, and balance. These creative structures encourage imaginative playtime. They also offer all children opportunities to learn and develop their social skills by encouraging interactive group play between peers.
Moveable items that can be purchased include (but are not limited to):
- access ramps to support transition between play areas and entry/exit to services
- safety surfacing (e.g. soft fall mats)
- wadding/protective padding for building structures, e.g. around veranda posts
- adjustable/inclusion tables and chairs to suit all abilities
- adjustable change tables
- adjustable walking frames
- mobility stools
- toilet frames/steps
- balance beams
- writing slopes wedges
- installation costs (for installing inclusive equipment funded through the Inclusion stream)
- indoor/outdoor sensory equipment such as:
- sensory wall panels
- resonance boards
- adjustable sand and water table
- tee pees
- toys
- multifunctional activity tables
- cushions
- chairs and flexi stools
- steppingstones
- hanging sensory/pod swings
- tactile equipment (e.g. sand, fidget toys)
- weighted and resistance equipment (e.g. weighted soft toys and blankets).
Appendix B – Application checklist
Buildings and Playgrounds application checklist
Evidence
Description
Considered responses to the assessment criteria All responses must demonstrate how the project will meet each merit assessment criteria. Written confirmation of co-contribution (if applicable)
If applicable, authorised written confirmation from the applicant and all other funding organisations including contributions from the Federal Government, Victorian Government, local government, or other sources must be submitted with the application.
Builder quotes and/or Quantity Surveyor Report, must include a minimum 5-10% (ex GST) cost contingency
For projects under $200,000 ex GST: Two appropriate cost estimates (quotes) from separate qualified building professionals registered for a trade that is consistent with the scope of the proposed works
For projects $200,000 or more ex GST: One Quantity Surveyor report from a registered Quantity Surveyor is required for building projects
Applications for projects on DE owned land must provide 2 quotes from a qualified professional for projects below $75,000 (GST inclusive) or 3 quotes for projects exceeding $75,000 (GST inclusive). See application requirements for projects on DE owned land below.
Project Budget (ex GST)
All applications must provide a budget (i.e. a simple excel or word document) including a clear and accurately itemised table of Total Project Costs according to the quote/s provided (ex GST) and requested funding amount, which will be the total project cost minus any co-contribution (if any).
Soil Hygienist Report
A Soil Hygienist Report is mandatory for any project that disturbs the soil. The report must include testing for contaminates such as arsenic, asbestos, and heavy metals from a qualified environmental professional. Report must not be dated more than 10 years.
Applications for projects on DE land do not need to provide this report as DE will procure this report following the application process. See application requirements for Projects on DE land below.
Div 6 Asbestos Audit Report
A Division 6 Asbestos Audit Report is mandatory for any project where the fabric of the building is being disturbed (unless constructed before 1990). Report must not be dated more than 10 years.
If the building was constructed before 1990, provide:
- asbestos report (if one is available) or evidence, such as an occupancy permit or statement from the landowner that the building is not older than 1990
- letter signed by an authorised representative of the organisation that confirms the applicant will be responsible for any remediation and ongoing management should ACM or other contaminants be discovered during works undertaken at the site.
Applications for projects on DE do not need to provide this report as DE will procure this report following the application process. See application requirements for Projects on DE land below.
Designs, Plans, Photos, Permits
All applications must provide professional schematic design drawings and site plans/ photos/ permits (where required) to illustrate what parts of the land or building will be changed by the project
Project Plan
All applications must provide a project plan (i.e. a simple excel or word document) to support the dates nominated in the application for stages of the project
Affected services
If your project will directly affect service providers currently operating at the facility, you must provide evidence that you have consulted with these providers such as letters of support or documented outcomes of consultation and engagement
Not-for-Profit Status
All not-for-profit organisations must provide evidence of not-for-profit status (such as a copy of your Australian Business Number, registration as a not-for-profit, certificate of registration as charity, or a certificate of registration as an incorporated association)
Signed financial Statements
All not-for-profit organisations and non-government schools must provide evidence of financial solvency such as a signed copies of audited financial statements for the previous two financial years.
Auspice Arrangement
If an auspice arrangement is proposed, signed, written confirmation from both parties is required
Evidence of Land ownership
The type of evidence required depends on who owns the land.
If the land is owned by DE, please see the section below.
If a local council or state/federal government agency own the land, or if you are leasing the building or the landowner is not the building owner, you must provide:
- certificate of land title with owners name and service address
- current lease with an end date at least four years after completing the project signed and dated by both parties; or
- if the current lease will end earlier than four years, the applicant must provide a signed letter from the landowner (on letterhead) referring to the specific property and project, stating they intend to allow the facility to operate as a kindergarten for at least four years after completing the project. It should not be dated more than three months.
- signed, written consent to undertake the work from the landowner (on letterhead) referring to the specific property and project, including who will deliver the project (i.e. applicant, landowner or the building owner) and any known risks or issues for the project site. It should not be dated more than three months.
If you (the applicant) own the land for the nominated project site, you must provide:
- certificate of land title, LANDATA documents or council rates notice with owners name and service address.
Projects on DE owned land
Your application must include:
- a completed Land Use Proposal Form (LUPF) found on the VSBA website (refer to Projects on DE owned land section).
- a copy of any existing lease or agreement between relevant parties
- a detailed design of your proposal
- 2 quotes from a qualified professional for projects below $75,000 (GST inclusive) or 3 quotes for projects exceeding $75,000 (GST inclusive)
- structural assessment reports (if works are proposed to a roof i.e. solar installations or extensions of roof line or roof upgrades).
- a mark-up of a School Plan (previously Schools Asset Management Plan) or Site Plan indicating clearly where the proposed works will be carried out.
Equipment application checklist
Evidence
Description
Considered responses to the assessment criteria
All responses must demonstrate how the project will meet the merit assessment criteria
Supplier quote (ex GST)
One appropriate cost estimate from a registered supplier that is consistent with the scope of the proposed works
Affected services
If your project will directly affect service providers currently operating at the facility evidence that you have consulted with these providers such as letters of support or documented outcomes of consultation and engagement
Not-for-Profit Status
All not-for-profit organisations must provide evidence of not-for-profit status (such as a copy of your Australian Business Number, registration as a not-for-profit, certificate of registration as charity, or a certificate of registration as an incorporated association)
Auspice Arrangement
If an auspice arrangement is proposed, signed, written confirmation from both parties is required
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