Certificate III qualified educators form the backbone of early childhood services, providing essential care and learning support for children across all settings. Their wages under the Children’s Services Award recognise both their qualifications and their growing experience, with clear progression from newly qualified educators to those with several years of service.
Updated Classification for Cert III Educators (2026 Onwards)
- CSE Level 3 (Advanced Educator – Diploma Assistant)
- CSE Level 4 (Room Leader)
Previous levels include:
| Old Level (2010 Award) | Role/Description | New CSE Level (2026) | New Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 3.1–3.3 | Certificate III qualified educator | CSE Level 3 | Qualified Educator |
| Level 3.5 | Experienced Certificate III educator (post‑qualification) | CSE Level 4 | Experienced Educator |
Key Changes for Cert III Educators
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Progression Pathway:
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Start as Qualified Educator at CSE 3.
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Move into Experienced Educator roles at CSE 4 after four years post‑qualification.
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Pay Rates: Each CSE level has its own minimum wage, rising annually with Award increases and gender equity adjustments.
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Clarity: Educators can now easily identify where they fit without navigating multiple sub‑levels.
What This Means Practically
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Newly qualified Certificate III educators (previously Level 3.1–3.3) will now be recognised as Qualified Educators at CSE 3.
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Experienced Certificate III educators (previously Level 3.5) are consolidated into CSE 4, acknowledging their years of service and experience.
Cert III Educators Pay Rates
Pay rates increase as cert III educators move from entry-level to experienced roles, ensuring recognition for their skills and commitment to the profession. The following pay rates are effective from 01 July 2026:
Further Reading
Understanding Your New Classification Level
Increase Pay Rates and New Classification Structure
Understanding the Wage Increase and Retention Payment
Reference:
Children's Services Award
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