FAQs

When can I apply for kindergarten?

In the City of Maroondah, applications for kindergartens who are a member of MIKA are taken the year before the child is due to attend.  Applications open on 1 March and close on 30 June, for attendance the following year. Late applications will always be accepted and placed where possible.  All applications must be made through MIKA.

Can I apply early?

No you cannot apply early, your application will not be accepted prior to the application period.

Is there a charge to apply?

Yes, there is a $28 MIKA application fee for three and four year old (this fee is waived for families applying under the Priority of Access Guidelines). If you have a multiple birth eg. twins, then only one application fee is charged. This application fee helps fund the Central Enrolment Office.

Is this fee deducted from my kindergarten fees?

No, this is an administration charge and helps to fund the operations of the Central Enrolment Office.

Is Three Year Old or Four Year Old free?

Three year old does not at present receive any government funding (click here for exceptions), so the service must be funded entirely by fees. Four year old is subsidised by the government, however fees need to be charged to cover the shortfall.  These fees are set by the individual kindergartens, and are kept as low as possible. If you are applying under the Priority of Access guidelines, you will not be required to pay for kindergarten.  You will be required to provide the service a copy of the card exempting you from paying fees.  From 2022, three year old will also be subsidised by the government.

Is MIKA a part of the Maroondah City Council?

MIKA is not a part of Maroondah City Council. It is a non profit incorporated association. Its members are representatives from each member kindergarten. MIKA employs the Central Enrolment Officer to administer the Central Enrolment Scheme on its behalf, according to the policies developed and agreed to by all member kindergartens.

Can I apply for three and four year old for the one year?

No, your child can only apply for one program.

If my child attends three year old, will they automatically receive a place at the same kindergarten for four year old the following year?

No, they are not guaranteed a place the following year, attendance at three year old is not a criteria for placement at four year old kindergarten.

My child has already turned three, and will turn four the year they are doing three year old. Is this ok?

Yes. Many, if not most, of the children attending three year old will turn four during the year.

My child is born in the period Jan to April.  Do they have to attend four year old kindergarten the year they turn four?

No, in fact many of the children born in this period will attend four year old kindergarten the following year. A large percentage of children will turn five while they are attending four year old kindergarten.  Four year old programs are designed to accommodate children aged four to six. It is important that you make the decision that is right for your child.  Just because they are eligible to attend, does not mean that they have to. If you require assistance in making this decision, please speak to the kindergarten teacher or maternal and child health nurse.