The government announced in November kindergarten would be free to children in the year before school who live in 10 drought-affected areas of Victoria.

These included Horsham Rural City, Hindmarsh, Northern Grampians, West Wimmera, Yarriambiack and Buloke municipalities.

The measure was part of a $27-million drought assistance package.

However opposition members questioned the government in parliament on Wednesday about families being means tested for eligibility.

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy said numerous parents contacted her, worried fees would apply this year.

“Some people who went to the premier’s announcement in Birchip last year clearly heard him say kinder would be free for families in 10 municipalities,” she said.

“The kinder year started two weeks ago, and invoices started to be sent then.

“Parents and kindergartens are being told by the Education Department that free kindergarten is not for everyone and will be means tested against eligibility criteria.

“We raised it in parliament during question time for the lower and upper houses, and we embarrassed the premier into backflipping, and confirming there will be free kinder.”

Ms Kealy said the move was a huge win for the region and those facing tough times during drought.

“When parents hear they'll get free kinder, they start doing up their budget for the year,” she said.

“If they are told they won’t have to pay kinder fees, they shouldn't have to pay kinder fees.

“It should not have come to this point.

“It showed the government was not telling the truth and trying to get out of honouring their agreement.”

Ms Kealy thanked the families who contacted her about the issue.

“It’s a win for them and standing up for what they deserve,” she said.

The government issued a statement on Wednesday reminding families they were eligible for free kinder.

The statement said the government wanted to clear up confusion caused by a Coalition misinformation campaign.

“The government is writing to kinders and local governments to make clear the range of support available for them and families,” it said.

Families and Children Minister Jenny Mikakos said the government was supporting families doing it tough.

“Making Victoria the education state means ensuring children don't miss out on a kinder education because of drought,” she said.

“We are acutely aware the effects of drought are felt beyond the farm gate and that’s why we’re making sure children don't miss out accessing a kinder education.”