East Gippsland families are reminded that first-round registrations through East Gippsland Shire Council’s Kindergarten Central Registration Service (CRS) close on 30 June 2026.

Introduced earlier this year, the CRS provides a single, central point for families to register their interest in state-funded 3 and 4-year-old kindergarten, removing confusion and making the process clearer and fairer for everyone.

Children turning 3 or 4 years old by 30 April 2027 are eligible to enrol in kindergarten for 2027. Families who register before the 30 June deadline will have the best chance of securing a place at their preferred kindergarten, with places allocated using priority criteria set by the Victorian Department of Education.

Registrations are still accepted after 30 June; however, families who register after the first-round deadline may have fewer kindergarten options available and are less likely to secure their first preference.

Even families whose preferred kindergarten is not yet participating in the CRS are encouraged to register. If a first preference is not available, families will already be in the system and can be considered for other participating kindergarten options.

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Jodie Ashworth encouraged families not to leave it too late.

"Kindergarten plays a vital role in a child's early development and starting that journey should feel exciting, not stressful. Registering through the Central Registration Service is quick, straightforward, and getting in before 30 June gives your family the best possible chance of securing your preferred kinder for 2027."

To register, visit eastgippsland.vic.gov.au/community/children, where families can also view the full list of participating services, learn how the process works and find answers to frequently asked questions.

If you need assistance, then you can contact Council's Early Years team at earlyyears@egipps.vic.gov.au or call (03) 5153 9500.

Families whose child is not yet old enough to enroll can submit a pre-registration at any time from birth; the Early Years team will be in touch when enrolment opens.