Six new toy libraries including in Hume, Deer Park and Truganina will be established.
Children Minister Lizzie Blandthorn announced $445,000 in funding for the first round of state government’s toy library grants, including two grants of $40,000 to deliver six new toy libraries across the state.
Toy Libraries Australia will establish four new toy wells and two new toy libraries at local primary schools in Truganina, Deer Park and in the Hume municiipality. The new services will provide free toy-lending services for children and families experiencing hardship.
Toy libraries offer an alternative to buying toys, help teach children about the lifecycle of toys, provide social and emotional support for families, and connect parents and carers with other community services.
A total of 58 not-for-profit toy libraries will also receive one-off grants of up to $10,000 to renew their toys and equipment, improve their member offering and grow their membership.
The funding can also be used for one-off costs, such as buying furniture or equipment to improve accessibility, and subsidising membership for families experiencing vulnerability.
Ms Blandthorn said toys are an essential part of supporting every child’s learning and development.
“This investment will give more children and families access to fun and educational toys and equipment locally and at low cost,” she said.
“Well-chosen toys help children learn through play.”
