UWU calls for National action on ECEC in face of workforce shortages and centre closures

The United Workers Union (UWU) has joined the Australian Education Union (AEU) and called for national action from the Federal Government and National Cabinet to protect the young children who attend early education and the educators who care for them.

1. Early educators to be nationally defined and recognised as frontline essential workers.   
2. Early educators should have priority access to PCR testing if required. Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) to be free and accessible for all educators, with clear and consistent testing, tracking and isolating protocols and procedures to manage staff shortages.
3. The definition of close contacts must include exposure at work as well as home. Educators need to be financially supported to isolate.
4. Centres that need to close for periods because of staff shortages to have access to financial support.
5. As frontline essential workers, early educators need to have priority access to vaccine booster appointments.

1. Clear guidelines and protocols for contact exposure, isolation requirements and for return to work or care after isolation.
2. Free RATs for educators and families to minimise exposure at early learning centres.
3. An 85 per cent subsidy guarantee to ensure educators can be paid, including those unable to work because of exposure.