AEU WELCOMES PAY RISE FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS

The Australian Education Union (AEU) has today welcomed the final 5 per cent instalment of the Federal Government’s 15 per cent pay rise for Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) teachers and educators, which comes into effect from today.

AEU Deputy Federal President Meredith Peace said the full 15 per cent increase reflects the essential work early childhood teachers and educators undertake and marks a significant step toward valuing the vital role they play in children’s development.

“Today’s pay rise is recognition of the professionalism, skill and dedication of early childhood educators across Australia,” Ms Peace said.

“ECEC is the foundation of lifelong learning. Ensuring that educators are fairly paid is essential to building a strong, high-quality early learning system for every child.”

Ms Peace said whilst the pay increase is an important milestone, further reform is still needed to address the workforce pressures impacting the sector.

“This pay rise is meaningful and will make a real difference to educators’ lives. But we know the workforce shortages in ECEC are significant and ongoing,” she said.

“To attract and retain the highly skilled professionals children deserve, we must continue to improve pay, address workload, and provide secure employment across the sector.”

The AEU also welcomed the Government’s acknowledgement that high-quality early childhood education relies on a stable, well-supported workforce and its commitment to lifting professional conditions.

“Our members in early childhood education settings see every day how early learning transforms lives,” Ms Peace said.

“Today is a win for teachers and educators, for families and most importantly for children.”

The AEU looks forward to continuing to work with the Government to ensure early childhood educators are valued, supported and recognised for the critical contribution they make.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kylie Jensen – 0402 298 728