The Children’s Services Award introduces a streamlined classification system and updated pay rates designed to better recognise the skills, qualifications, and responsibilities of early childhood educators. This is part of the Fair Work Commission’s gender-based undervaluation review, designed to properly recognise the professional expertise of early childhood educators and ensure fairer, more transparent career pathways across the sector.

The Children’s Services Award has 8 clear levels. These levels make it easier to understand where you fit, based on your experience, qualifications, and responsibilities. Each level links directly to the minimum wage you’re entitled to, giving educators a straightforward career path and fairer pay structure.

Is programming time included in your ordinary hours? Should you be paid overtime if a parent is running late to pick up a child? Staff meetings are compulsory, do you get paid?