The Australian Government has announced a 15% wage increase for Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) workers, benefiting those in Blair and across Australia.
This pay rise, aims to properly compensate educators while ensuring that childcare fees remain manageable for families.
“This $3.6 billion investment from the Government recognises the vital role that ECEC workers play in preparing children for school,” said Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann.
“They do important work, and we need to make sure they are properly paid.”
The wage increase, to be phased in over two years, includes a 10% boost from December 2024, followed by an additional 5% in December 2025.
For a typical ECEC educator paid at the award rate, this translates to a weekly pay rise of at least $103 from December 2024, increasing to $155 by the end of 2025.
Minister for Early Childhood Education, Dr. Anne Aly, highlighted the importance of this initiative in retaining and attracting new educators to the sector.
“Properly valuing the early childhood education and care workforce is crucial to attracting and retaining workers and vital to achieving the quality universal early learning sector Australian families deserve,” Dr. Aly said.
The Government’s decision to tie this wage increase to a commitment from childcare centres to limit fee increases to no more than 4.4% over the next 12 months ensures that families in Blair will benefit from more affordable childcare.
Director of Springfield-based Woodcrest Early Education Centre and Preschool Melanie Harrison expressed optimism about the positive impact this wage increase would have on her team.
“The Federal Government’s new 15% pay rise for early educators will significantly impact our team; not only will it boost morale by showing our staff that their hard work and dedication are truly valued, but it will also help to attract more people to the sector,” Harrison said.
“Ultimately this creates a more motivated and committed team ready to provide the highest quality of care and education for our children.”
