Program Overview
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Purpose: To attract, train, and retain a skilled early childhood workforce in NSW.
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Funding Commitment: Up to $27.6 million allocated by the NSW Government.
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Eligibility: Both aspiring professionals (new entrants) and existing educators.
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Application Process: Managed via the Scholarship Management System through Service NSW.
Scholarship Categories & Amounts
| Aspiring Professionals | Funding Available |
|---|---|
| Certificate III in ECEC | Up to $5,000 |
| Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Teaching | Up to $35,000 |
| Master’s in Early Childhood Teaching | Up to $25,000 |
| Graduate Certificate/Diploma (for those with primary/secondary teaching qualifications) | Up to $20,000 |
| Existing Professionals | Funding Available |
|---|---|
| Diploma of ECEC | Up to $6,000 |
| Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Teaching | Up to $20,000 |
| Master’s in Early Childhood Teaching | Up to $25,000 |
Additional Loadings: Extra financial support is available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholars and those in regional, rural, or remote areas.
Eligibility Snapshot
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Must be living in NSW or eligible border towns.
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Must be enrolled or intending to enrol in an approved ECEC qualification.
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Must commit to working in an NSW ECEC service after completion.
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Must complete a Child Safety Declaration.
Key Dates
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Applications Open: Second intake of Round 1 now live.
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Closing Date: 10am (AEST), Friday, 29 May 2026.
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Future Rounds: Round 2 expected later in 2026.
Practical Considerations
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Tax & Centrelink: Scholarship funds may affect obligations or benefits.
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Study Costs: Some expenses (e.g., textbooks, travel) may not be covered.
Why Educators Should Apply
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Provides clear career pathways from entry‑level to postgraduate study.
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Reduces financial barriers to professional growth.
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Helps address workforce shortages in NSW early childhood services.
For more detailed information and to apply: 2026 Early Childhood Education and Care Scholarship Program
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