In early childhood services across Australia, educators are often expected to stay beyond their rostered hours to complete tasks—cleaning, documentation, ratio coverage, or closing duties. But when this extra time goes unpaid, it’s not just unfair—it may be unlawful.

Australia’s early childhood educators are facing a silent crisis—one marked by systemic wage theft, escalating burnout, and compromised quality of care. A groundbreaking study from the University of Sydney has pulled back the curtain on the realities educators navigate daily, revealing that over 70% are working an average of 7–9 unpaid hours per week. This is more than just a pay gap—it's an ethical fault line.

Educators, ECTs, and Trainees who are currently earning minimum wages from the Children's Services Award, Early Childhood Teacher's Award, and National Training Wage will now receive a 3.5% pay increase from the first full pay period.

Since July 2024, the FWC has been examining the gender undervaluation case affecting children services employees (CSEs) under the Children Services Award. The FWC released its provisional view and full decision, which includes a new classification structure and wage increases across levels. 

From the 1st of January 2025, intentional underpayment of wages by employers will be criminalized as part of reforms to workplace rules. 

The Fair Work Commission has announced a 3.75% increase in minimum wages following its 2024 Annual Wage Review. The increase will apply to minimum base pay rates from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 July 2024.

For Educators and ECTs minimum wage rates in awards increased by 5.75% in July, so it’s time to recheck your wages.

The federal government has been urged by the United Workers Union to provide funding for a 25% pay increase in this year's budget.

An urgent 25% wage increase is demanded by frustrated Educators who claim they are overworked and underpaid in order to address issues with excessive turnover in the sector.

For ECT's working in early childhood services, they are on the Educational Services Teachers Award and there are 5 Classification Levels which determines their rate of pay.