The Federal Government has announced an extension of the Worker Retention Payment program until June 2028, securing funding for a 15% above‑award wage increase for educators at participating services.

However, it is important to clarify this is not a universal pay rise for all educators. It is an extension of a grant program. Only educators employed at services that applied for and were approved under the program will continue to receive the higher wages. Educators at non‑participating centres remain on award wages.

The Department has released an end‑of‑year update on the Worker Retention Payment, including important information about the gender‑based undervaluation review, payment processing, and deadlines for backdated funding reviews. Services currently participating or considering applying are encouraged to review the details below.