UPDATE: Early childhood educators are set to receive a critical final 5% pay increase starting tomorrow, December 1, 2023. This adjustment brings the total wage rise to an impressive $160 per week since December last year, a significant move by the Albanese government to bolster the sector.
Education Minister Jason Clare emphasized the importance of fair compensation for early educators, stating, “Caring for and teaching kids is some of the most important work in the country.” He confirmed that this 15% pay rise is a vital step in attracting new talent and retaining existing staff.
The pay increase comes as the sector grapples with a severe workforce shortage. Since the initial 10% bump last year, the number of early childhood educators has surged by 15,100, marking a 6% increase in workforce size. Additionally, vacancy rates at childcare centers have decreased by 14%, and staffing waivers—temporary allowances for operating with fewer staff—have dropped by 9% as of October.
Early Childhood Education Minister Jess Walsh stated that improved pay is crucial for creating a stable workforce. “For too long, our early childhood educators were underpaid, undervalued, and overlooked,” she said. “We’re seeing that turn around,” highlighting the positive impact of the wage adjustments.
The chief executive of Goodstart Early Learning, Ros Baxter, described the pay increase as a “game-changer” for stabilizing the early childhood workforce. She noted that Goodstart’s vacancy rate has hit a five-year low, down 31% in two years. “A stable, professional workforce is essential for delivering safe, quality early learning and care for children and families,” Baxter added.
This year has not been without challenges for the sector, facing serious allegations of abuse in multiple childcare centers. In response, Minister Clare introduced urgent legislation allowing for the reduction of federal funding to centers failing to meet safety standards after a childcare worker was charged with over 70 offenses, including serious sexual crimes against minors.
As educators prepare to receive their pay increases, the focus remains on ensuring not only fair compensation but also a safe learning environment for children. The Albanese government is expected to continue addressing these pressing issues, promising further support and reforms for the early childhood sector.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as this situation develops.
