Early childhood educators are entrusted with the profound responsibility of nurturing and protecting young children. Yet, many educators face daily challenges when children exhibit violent behaviours like biting, hitting, scratching, or verbal aggression. While child protection is paramount, the rights and well-being of educators must also be safeguarded.

Educator ratios must be upheld at all times, including during care tasks unless supervision is compromised, in which case coverage is legally required. Here’s a guide to help educators understand their rights and responsibilities around ratios and supervision, with more examples and direct links to authoritative sources.

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.

Higher duties in the Children's Services Award refer to situations where an educator temporarily performs tasks or responsibilities that belong to a higher classification or position than their usual role. During this time, appropriate compensation should be awarded. 

MYTH: You have to attend work meetings after hours for free. FACT: You should be paid. MYTH: You need to pay for training. FACT: You are paid for those hours. Your employer must pay you for all hours you work and any compulsory time spent for work, including meetings and training.

The following article provides information on How Much Sick Leave For Full-Time Employers, When Evidence Has To Be Given, Types Of Evidence Needed For Sick Leave, Can An Employer Deny Your Sick Leave Request, and more.