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To find your nearest Playgroup or to start a new playgroup, call us on the toll free number 1800 171 882

Notice Board
Job Vacancy Find out more about the position of National Project Officer with Playgroup Australia Read More...
International Playgroup Conference Read More...
Helping Children with Autism announcement Read More...
Playgroup celebrates a milestone On Monday 16th June, the families of Bendigo Neighbourhood House Playgroup celebrate a notable milestone: they will become the 100th playgroup to complete transition under the Australian Government’s Supported Playgroup Program. Read More...
Giving away more Vegemite Little Aussie Readers! Read More...

Time to tidy!

  • When you and your child have finished playing games, make tidying up fun by singing a song as you put toys away, and praise your child for helping
What is a Playgroup?
Home » What is a Playgroup?

Playgroup is an informal session where mums, dads, grand parents, caregivers, children and babies meet together in a relaxed environment.

Playgroups are set up and run by parents and caregivers, with children choosing from a range of activities set up to meet their varying needs. Activities at playgroup are either free or low cost, and may include:

  • Music and singing
  • Imaginative play
  • Outdoor and free play
  • Art and craft activities
  • Outings.


In a playgroup, parents & caregivers stay to interact with the other adults & to play with the children.

Playgroup can be held anywhere that is safe for children and where groups of people can meet - community and neighbourhood centres, health clinics, women's centres, preschools and kindergartens, church halls and even in someone's house

No child is too young for playgroup. All children from 0-5 years, including babies, love new experiences and benefit from developing sensory, social and communication skills through activities at playgroup.

Children like playgroup because they can:

  • Participate in new experiences
  • Develop and increase their social skills
  • Learn sharing, co-operation and simple routines
  • Interact with other adults and children in a safe environment
  • Enjoy learning more about their world

Adults also benefit from playgroup - a time to talk, make friends and share experiences, while children learn through their play experiences.

Adults like playgroup because they can:

  • Meet other local families and develop new friendships
  • Relax and talk in a friendly environment
  • Share experiences and ideas
  • Play with children and nurture a spirit of co-operation
  • Take up opportunities for personal development


There is a Playgroup Association in every State and Territory to help you:

  • Find a local playgroup which suits your needs
  • Set up a new playgroup


If you would like to START a new playgroup in your area or JOIN an existing playgroup, call your Playgroup Association on 1800 171 882 (free call).