Playgroup Queensland Ltd

Playgroup Queensland Ltd, trading as Play Matters Australia, is a prominent nonprofit organisation based in Queensland, Australia, dedicated to supporting children, families, and communities by promoting play and parent-child connection. Established in 1973 by a group of mothers in Brisbane’s Mount Gravatt suburb, the organisation has evolved over five decades from a volunteer-led association into one of Australia’s largest community-based charities specialising in early childhood development and play-based parenting support[1][2].

History

The organisation was initially founded as the Playgroup Association of Queensland, a non-religious, not-for-profit group aimed at fostering social and developmental opportunities for families through playgroups. In 1979, it played a key role in advancing the national playgroup movement by organising and hosting the first National Playgroup Conference. Over time, Playgroup Queensland expanded its scope and services by incorporating emerging research and innovative early childhood practices to meet the varying needs of vulnerable and disadvantaged children and families[2].

A significant milestone in its history was the creation of Sing&Grow Australia, a nationally recognised evidence-based music therapy program designed to support young children and families. Initiated in partnership with Playgroup Queensland in 2001, Sing&Grow was later extended nationally through Australian Government funding in 2005. This initiative exemplifies the organisation’s commitment to evidence-based, innovative programs that enhance child development and family wellbeing[2].

The organisation’s trading name was changed to Play Matters Australia to better reflect its broadened vision and mission of prioritising play and connection for every Australian child and family, regardless of location. All Playgroup Queensland services and programs are now delivered under the Play Matters Australia banner[1][3][4].

Mission and Activities

Playgroup Queensland Ltd aims to provide children with the best start to life by empowering families through play. Its activities include establishing, promoting, and developing playgroups and supportive family services that foster early childhood development, parent-child attachment, and community connection. The organisation focuses on inclusive support for families from diverse backgrounds, ensuring access to quality play opportunities and parenting resources[1][4].

Significance

As a longstanding leader in the early childhood sector, Playgroup Queensland Ltd has significantly contributed to the development of the national playgroup agenda in Australia. Its commitment to integrating research with community practice has made it a vital resource for families, practitioners, and policymakers aiming to improve childhood outcomes through play and supportive parenting environments[2].

This article is based on publicly available information from the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and Play Matters Australia historical records.

[1] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/b491f203-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/profile [2] https://playmatters.org.au/our-history [3] https://playmatters.org.au/about/queensland [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/b491f203-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/documents/4f0c8979-99b1-ee11-a568-00224893cef4 [5] https://www.playgroupaustralia.org.au/our-state-and-territory-organisations/playgroup-queensland/