Applications now open for $72m ECEC workforce support program

More than 80,000 early childhood educators are set to benefit from a recently announced $72.4 million workforce support program which will provide opportunities for educators to improve their skills and access training.

On 3 May 2023, the Australian Government announced the Professional Development and Paid Practicum Subsidy Program as part of the 2023-24 Budget. The program is one of a number of urgent actions to help support the skills and training of early childhood education and care (ECEC) educators by expanding access to quality professional development.

The program aims to ensure that early childhood educators “can take advantage of clear pathways for career advancement,” with a special focus on regional and remote services and First Nations organisations.

The program will also help existing educators upskill by providing financial support to help complete on-the-job teaching placements required by teacher education courses.

Improving the capacity and capability of services is vital to delivering the quality early childhood education sector that families rely on, Minister for Early Childhood Education Dr Anne Aly said.

“This is about ensuring workers in feminised industries, such as ECEC, can seize opportunities to progress their careers,” she added. 

Applications for funding to backfill positions while early childhood educators, teachers and centre directors undertake professional development opportunities are now open. Early childhood educators can also apply for support to undertake a practicum exchange at a different service.

The timeframe for applications is limited, and will close on 15 July 2023. Program guidelines, including information on eligibility, are available on the Department of Education website.