Former Australian Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, has recommended that universal preschooling be extended to three-year-olds in South Australia. The plan, set to begin in 2026 and be fully operational by 2032, would offer 15 hours of preschool for 40 weeks a year for three-year-olds, similar to what is currently offered to four-year-olds. The program could be provided through government schools, private learning centres and long daycare facilities. South Australia would need to invest substantially in funding and staff to implement the program, with approximately 11,130 new preschool places required at an initial capital cost of up to $139m. Gillard said that extra hours of preschooling could be provided to children who are most at risk of developmental delays, to ensure they have the support to catch up, as evidence shows a lack of early intervention can impact adult health, economic outcomes, welfare dependency and even involvement with crime. The premier of South Australia will respond to the report by May 19, and Gillard is due to deliver a final report in August.