There are 4 components to equity funding:

• Component A – Low socio-economic communities.
• Component B – Special needs and non-English speaking backgrounds.
• Component C – Language and culture other than English (including sign language). You need to apply for this funding.
• Component D – Isolation.

Funding components A and B are based on the early childhood Equity Index (EQI). The ECE Funding Handbook has information about each Equity Index (EQI) funding component and how it can be used.

Equity funding: ECE funding handbook

How services get EQI funding

To apply for Component C funding, use the application form below.

You do not need to apply for this funding components A, B and D.

We calculate how much funding you will get based on your EQI number.

New services will be contacted by us and included in our EQI assessment rounds. These happen around March and November.

Education Counts has information about assessment and payment dates.

Equity index assessment – Education Counts

Apply for a review of your EQI

Services with an EQI of 2, 3, 4 or 5+ can ask for a review of their EQI. This is available once a year.

Education Counts has information and application forms for EQI reviews.

The ECE Funding Handbook sets out what information you need to provide for a review.

10-2 Component A: Low socio-economic communities: ECE funding handbook

Combine equity funding as an umbrella organisation

You can combine your funding with other early learning services if you are grouped under an umbrella organisation like the Playcentre Association. This might let you address equity issues in your wider community.

Umbrella organisations can do this only if each individual service agrees.