Proposed enterprise agreement for KU children’s services

Proposed enterprise agreement for KU children’s services

The Independent Education Union NSW/ACT Branch has confirmed its support for a proposed enterprise agreement for employees of KU Children’s Services, recommending a strong ‘yes’ vote from members.

The agreement signals significant strides in improving pay, conditions, and professional support for early childhood educators and leaders employed by one of Australia’s most established not-for-profit providers.

The proposed EA includes a range of enhancements that reflect the evolving demands and responsibilities of early childhood education and care professionals. 

These developments come amid a sector wide push for meaningful reform, as early childhood educators continue to advocate for recognition of their qualifications, expertise, and essential role in shaping children’s early development.

The IEU has noted that the agreement is not just a response to member needs but a step toward restoring the value and dignity of the profession.

The proposed conditions also address the growing complexity of roles within the sector, including the rising administrative burdens, compliance expectations, and the need for evidence-informed teaching and planning time. 

If endorsed, the KU agreement could serve as a benchmark for what future fit, fair working conditions should look like across the early learning sector. It sets a precedent not only for other providers but also for broader government-funded reforms, highlighting the importance of workplace-led improvements alongside policy change.

The proposal has been welcomed by educators who have long called for fairer treatment and a more sustainable work environment. “This is a turning point,” said one KU teacher. “We’ve been waiting a long time for an agreement that actually reflects what we do and what we need to stay in the sector.”

As public and political attention continues to focus on the importance of early education, agreements like this demonstrate what is possible when employers and employee representatives work collaboratively to shape the future of the profession.

More information, including a summary of the proposed changes and next steps is available here.