MEDIA RELEASE
OFFICIAL OPENING OF NEW INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND AT DANDENONG RANGES STEINER SCHOOL KINDERGARTEN
The Victorian Government continues to invest in high-quality early learning environments across Victoria, today celebrating the completion of upgrades at Dandenong Ranges Steiner School Kindergarten, delivered through last year’s 2024–25 Building Blocks Inclusion Grants Program.
Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino officially opened the new three-year-old kindergarten playground today, funded through $197,872 in State Government support via the Building Blocks Inclusion Grants Program.
The project marks the final stage of the school’s Little Kindergarten redevelopment, creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive outdoor space where children of all abilities can learn, play and thrive.
The upgrade has delivered significant improvements to the kindergarten environment, including:
• new retaining walls and stairs to provide safer access
• landscaped garden beds to support sensory and nature-based learning
• the installation of new swing sets and play elements suited to children of varying developmental needs
The works were made possible through the Building Blocks Inclusion Grants Program, which in 2024–25 provided more than $9 million to over 400 early childhood services across Victoria for facility upgrades and inclusive equipment.
Funding under the program ensures early childhood services can support children to engage in activities, build confidence, and participate fully in their kindergarten experience, regardless of a child’s ability.
Since its launch in 2020, the Labor Government’s Building Blocks program has delivered more than $235 million to plan, build and improve early childhood services across the state.
These upgrades are part of Victoria’s nation-leading $14 billion Best Start, Best Life reforms, transforming early childhood education and giving every Victorian child the strongest possible start.
The project at Dandenong Ranges Steiner School Kindergarten was supported and managed by Business Manager Cath Lanigan and Maintenance Officer Alex McHutchison.
Quotes attributable to Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino
“It’s wonderful to officially open this beautiful new playground at Dandenong Ranges Steiner School Kindergarten - a space that really reflects the heart of this community and where every child can feel safe, included and excited to learn and play.”
“This project shows exactly what Building Blocks funding is all about - practical improvements that make a real difference for local families. It’s wonderful to see such a thoughtfully designed space that supports children of all abilities to grow, explore and thrive.”
Quotes attributable to Dandenong Ranges Steiner School Kindergarten Business Manager Cath Lanigan
“We’re delighted to have a beautiful new play space and gardens for our three-year-old Kindergarten program. The craftsman built swing set is a particularly popular upgrade with the children.”
“We’re very grateful to the State Government for their support for this project so we have a safe, accessible playground which will serve the kindergarten well for many years.”
“This project also follows previous State Government grants for the establishment of the three-year-old kindergarten room, and the refurbishment of the kinder office and community room. We feel very fortunate to have this lovely space to provide for the children, parents and staff. It is very helpful for delivering our program that is rated as exceeding all national standards.”
