Your child must be at least 4 years of age on 30 April in the year which they attend kindergarten.
If your child is born between 1 January and 30 April, they can attend kindergarten when they turn 4 or 5. You need to decide when is best for your child to begin kindergarten. You must make this decision before your child begins kindergarten.
The Victorian Department of Education and Training (DET) has resources to help you decide. You can also seek advice from an early childhood educator at your child's kindergarten.
If you change your mind about when your child should start kindergarten, you must complete our change of kindergarten registration form.
Kindergarten term dates
Find future kindergarten term dates on the Victorian Department of Education and Training website.
Early start kindergarten
Your child may be able to start kindergarten early for two reasons:
- They qualify for the Victorian Government's Early Start Kindergarten program (ESK).
- They are considered a gifted child.
3-year-old kindergarten
We do not provide 3-year-old kindergarten. Some private kindergartens do offer programs for 3 year old children. For more information, please contact your nearest:
- kindergarten committee
- long day care centres
- neighbourhood house