Planning for a Supported Playgroup
Funding
Funding for supported playgroups often comes from broader State or Federal government programs. Funding will generally be attached to a broad set of aims and objectives. At times, the amount of funding offered is pre-determined. In other cases, you will need to make an application for a specified amount of funding. Regardless of the source of your funding, you will need to have a clear understanding of the activities included in your program and how much it will cost to deliver those activities and manage the playgroup. To do this you will need to identify all potential costs. The table below outlines some of the key budgetary considerations as a guide.
Item
Considerations
Staffing costs
Staffing costs will depend on the model, number of staff, experience and qualifications required, and hours per week to be worked. You will need to allow for salary on-costs to cover leave entitlements and superannuation. Other staffing costs considerations include things such as training costs, uniforms, and allowances such as phone or remote allowance.
Administration Costs
Administration costs are the costs to the organisation to manage and run the program including computers and other equipment, insurance, administrative support, financial management and audit processes.
Program costs
Program costs can include toys and equipment, consumables such as morning tea, cleaning materials, venue costs including cleaning, incursions, excursions, parenting resources, workshops, and special celebrations or events.