This first major enquiry into preschool education across Australia provides the opportunity for a wide range of professional groups and parents to make submissions regarding the national perspective on preschool education across Australia.

The opening national forum on 21 October received verbal submissions and presentations from government departments, early childhood professionals, academics and other organizations. Click here for a full listing of participants.

It is anticipated that given the nature and scope of this enquiry, many organizations will wish to put forward a submission so it is important written submissions specifically relate to the terms of reference so that information, data and recommendations can be categorised systematically.

Part of the enquiry provides me with the opportunity to visit each state and territory to hold forums, meet with key stakeholders and to visit some of the early childhood programs in each state.

The first visit will be held this year on 26 27 28 November in the Northern Territory and details of this visit will be listed on the website soon.

I am looking forward to discussions and receiving submissions between now and April and notification will be acknowledged to those who provide submissions throughout the process.

If any organization or group would like to arrange a meeting with me between now and April 2004, please contact me on the email address below.

Regular updates to this column will be provided each fortnight.

I look forward to receiving submissions and hearing from you.

Kathy Walker