More than 17,000 early childhood educators across Australia will enjoy a significant pay rise starting this week, thanks to a 15 percent wage increase introduced by the federal government. This historic boost is part of a broader initiative to address the chronic underpayment in the early childhood sector and encourage more workers to remain in or return to the field.
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Who’s Benefiting and How Much?
Workers at over 650 Goodstart Early Learning centres are among the first to see their paychecks swell, with pay increases starting at 10 percent above the award rate this week and a further 5 percent hike scheduled for December 2025.
- Early Childhood Carers/Educators
- Immediate pay rise: At least $103 per week.
- By December 2025: At least $155 per week.
- Early Childhood Teachers
- From December 2024: An extra $166 per week.
- By December 2025: An additional $249 per week.
This uplift will affect up to 200,000 early childhood workers nationwide.
Tying Pay Rises to Fee Limits
A key condition of the wage increase is a requirement for early learning providers to limit fee hikes, ensuring that the additional costs are not passed on to families. Eligible providers can apply online for funding to cover these pay rises, with applications accepted until June 30, 2025. Successful applications submitted by this deadline will have payments backdated to December 2, 2024.
A Sector in Need of Support
Education Minister Jason Clare emphasized the importance of the initiative in addressing pay inequity in the childcare sector.
“Early childhood educators are some of the most underpaid workers in Australia. We are changing that,” Mr. Clare said.
“This initial pay rise will mean an extra $100 in before-tax pay every week, starting this month.”
He also highlighted the broader benefits of the policy, including encouraging more workers to stay in the sector and attracting back those who may have left due to low wages.
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A Win for Educators and Families
This wage boost is part of a larger commitment by the government to improve conditions in the early learning sector. The significant pay rise not only addresses wage stagnation but also ensures families can continue to access affordable childcare without fear of fee surges.
By increasing wages and introducing measures to curb fee hikes, this initiative delivers a win-win for educators and families alike—laying the groundwork for a stronger, more sustainable early childhood education sector.
How to Apply for Funding
Early learning providers can apply for funding through the government’s online portal, with approved applications ensuring backdated payments to cover the new wages.
For more information on eligibility and application procedures, visit the Department of Education’s website.
This landmark wage reform offers a much-needed financial boost to some of the nation’s most essential but undervalued workers, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting Australia’s early childhood education sector.
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