The government is investing $1.9 billion into lifting outcomes in early childhood, supporting every South Australian child to have the best start in life. The Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care found that 2 years of preschool are more beneficial than one. Children who attend 2 years of quality preschool show stronger cognitive, social and emotional development, and are better prepared for school.

3-year-old preschool will roll out in stages from 2026, starting with partnering long day care services across the state, and government and other sessional preschools in regional areas and three metro demonstration sites. In 2026, more than 200 long day care services and 45 government preschools will begin offering the Flying Start 3-year-old preschool program. Services delivering 3-year-old preschool from 2026 are located across metropolitan, regional and rural South Australia. More long day care and preschool services will start offering the program every year, expanding the offer for families. All children will have access to a place by 2032.