Educational Disadvantage Can Begin as Early as Age Two

Research shows that 1 in 4 Australian children as young as two, who lack access to early learning are already falling behind before they even start school. That’s the confronting reality highlighted in a recent ABC News article.

Which is why we are doing our best to change that.

Our Access to Early Learning (AEL) program is designed to ensure no child misses out on vital early education. Operating in the City of Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula Shire, OzChild facilitators work closely with families to build strong, supportive connections between the home, kindergarten and local services—ensuring every child is fully supported.

Each year, AEL supports around 16 families and children by:

Programs like AEL are crucial in bridging the gap, offering children from disadvantaged backgrounds a better start in life. Because early learning isn’t just about school readiness—it’s about giving every child the chance to thrive, regardless of the challenges their family may face.

We believe access to quality early education shouldn’t be a privilege. It’s a right. And through AEL, we’re making that right a reality—one family at a time.

Unfortunately, this program is only available in the City of Frankston and within the Mornington Peninsula Shire at the moment.

🔗 Learn more about Access to Early Learning: https://staging.ozchild.org.au/service/access-to-early-learning/

🔗 Read the full story: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-04-10/child-care-deserts-cause-educational-disadvantage-for-children/105126094