Preschool and kindergarten can refer to different levels of early learning, depending on where you live in Australia. In some child care centres, both preschool and kindergarten programs are used interchangeably, which can be somewhat confusing as a parent!
If you’re a parent looking for a straightforward answer to the difference between preschool and kindergarten in Australia, this guide can help you understand which early learning program your child should attend.
Preschool in Australia
Preschool programs are designed for children aged 3-5 years old, focused on social, emotional, literacy, and numeracy learning and development.
Learning in preschool is largely play-based – children learn organically through curated and supervised play programs. Across Australia, play-based education in early learning settings is endorsed by the Australian Government under the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and the National Quality Framework (NQF).
In addition, preschool is not compulsory in Australia – but the Australian Government highly recommends attending preschool programs as it can help children gain a firm foundation for future learning. 
Kindergarten in Australia
Kindergarten, or kindy, builds on the learnings gained in preschool, often with the goal of preparing children for the transition to primary school.
Kindergarten programs usually have a more structured schedule and approach to learning, with the aim of familiarising children with the primary school environment.
In New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, kindergarten is the first year of primary school.
In all other states and territories, kindergarten is a one-year program before children start primary school. The first year of primary school is referred to as something else, such as Prep, Pre-Primary, Reception, or Transition.
Differences in Preschool vs Kindergarten
| Preschool | Kindergarten | |
| Attending age | 3 to 5 years | 5 to 6 years |
| Compulsory attendance | No, but highly recommended. |
Yes, if it is the first year of primary school. No, if it is before primary school. |
| Learning curriculum | Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). | School or Prep curriculum. |
| Developmental focus | Early learning for social, emotional, literacy, and numeracy skills. | Reading, writing, and math skills. |
| Cost and funding | Child care fees differ between providers. Eligible families can claim Child Care Subsidy (CCS) from the government. |
Centre fees apply for kindy programs before primary school.
Public primary schools are government-funded. Private primary schools have separate tuition fees. |
Attending Age
Preschool is designed for the years leading up to formal school. Most children in NSW attend a 4-year-old program the year before they start “big school.”
Kindergarten (the first year of primary school) generally accepts children who turn 5 by July 31 of that year. Many parents in NSW choose to delay entry if their child has a mid-year birthday, meaning some children start Kindergarten at age 6.
Compulsory Attendance
Preschool remains optional across Australia, though state and territory governments have programs that offer at least 15 hours of preschool learning per week to all children. In NSW, kindergarten is compulsory – all children must be enrolled in school by their 6th birthday.
Learning Curriculum
Preschool follows the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), which is centred on “Belonging, Being, and Becoming.” It is largely play-based, with Early Learning Educators guiding how children learn.
Kindergarten follows the formal NSW Syllabus set by NESA (NSW Education Standards Authority). While it incorporates some elements of play, it is mainly a transition into structured academic subjects, such as English, Mathematics, Science and Technology, and Arts.
Developmental Focus
The preschool years focus on school readiness: learning how to share, developing independence, fine motor skills, communication and comprehension, and emotional regulation.
In kindergarten, learning is mostly academic. Children learn to read, basic addition/subtraction, and the focus required to sit in a classroom for a full school day.
Cost and Funding
Families that enrol in Long Day Care Preschool programs may be eligible to receive the Child Care Subsidy (CCS).
Kindergarten in NSW public schools is free (funded by the government), though parents usually pay for uniforms, excursions, and a “voluntary” school contribution. Private or Catholic Kindergarten requires full tuition fees.
At Raising Stars, our childcare centres in Sydney provide high-quality, all-inclusive preschool programs for children up to the age of 6. We have purpose-built childcare facilities in Five Dock, Gregory Hills, Moss Vale, Leppington, each offering a warm and welcoming environment for children to play and learn.