ELAA and anzuk Education Early Childhood Awards finalists and winners announced

The winners of the 2024 ELAA and anzuk Education Early Childhood Awards have been announced.

The awards celebrate the significant contributions that emerging sector leaders, service providers, and volunteers make to the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector. 

In 2024, two new awards were introduced to the program – the Emerging Leader Award and the Organisation Innovation Award, highlighting the diverse ways individuals and organisations contribute to shaping the future of ECEC.

After careful consideration of the many outstanding nominations, the following finalists were announced:

Emerging Leader Award Finalists

• Amanda Hood – Albert Park Kinder​
• Lauren Legendre – Paratea Preschool​
• Meagan Veale – Haileybury

Organisation Innovation Award Finalists

• Edithvale Family and Children Centre​ – Child Empowerment Package ​
• South Melbourne Childcare Co Op​ – Mealtimes Expectations Project​
• The Herd Intergenerational Learning Centre​ – Keeping Safe: Child Protection Curriculum

Volunteer of the Year Award Finalists

• Jessica Maya – Friendship Square Childcare and ​Kindergarten Co-Op ​
• Anyssa Tucke – Paratea Preschool​
• Christie Olney – Robyn Jane Children’s Centre

The winners of the 2024 anzuk Education Early Childhood Awards winners are:

Emerging Leader Award: Meagan Veale – Haileybury

Meagan Veale’s 17-year journey as an Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) leader at Haileybury Brighton ELC highlights her unwavering dedication to nurturing children, empowering educators, and fostering inclusive, impactful learning environments. Leading a team of 13 staff and overseeing the care of 84 children, Meagan has spearheaded initiatives such as the Reconciliation Action Plan, the Looking Through the Lens program, and an Environmental Learning curriculum. By embedding Aboriginal perspectives, enhancing transitions to Junior School, and promoting sustainability, Meagan’s leadership has left a lasting legacy.

Organisation Innovation Award: Edithvale Family and Children Centre​ – Child Empowerment Package ​

Edithvale Family and Children Centre’s Child Empowerment Package exemplifies a commitment to embedding child safety and empowerment in everyday practices. Developed in collaboration with the Institute of Child Protection Studies at Australian Catholic University, the package integrates evidence-based research with practical application. It includes training modules, real-life scenarios, and reflective tools designed for educators, families, and children. The initiative has been instrumental in promoting empowerment, consent, and child agency within the centre.

Volunteer of the Year Award: Jessica Maya – Friendship Square Childcare and ​Kindergarten Co-Op ​

Over seven years, Jessica Maya has been a cornerstone of Friendship Square Childcare and Kindergarten Co-Op’s success. Balancing her roles as a full-time teacher and mother of three, Jessica has managed HR, finances, and daily operations as a volunteer and president. She has driven child safety through innovative policies and professional development, while also securing $500,000 in grants to enhance the centre’s inclusivity and facilities. Her dedication to bush kinder, Indigenous culture, and community engagement has ensured a thriving, enriching environment for children and families.

To catch up on the inspiring stories of 2024 winners, finalists and nominees, and to learn more about their stories, follow ELAA on social media.