PALM program delivers early childhood workforce boost in NT regions

Thirteen early childhood educators from Papua New Guinea have graduated from a specialised training program in the Northern Territory, providing critical support to regional communities through the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme.

Communities in Katherine and Alice Springs are welcoming a fresh cohort of early childhood educators, following the successful completion of a training initiative delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) TAFE.

The program is part of the Australian Government’s Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) pilot under the PALM scheme, designed to address workforce shortages in rural and regional areas. The 13 participants who arrived from Papua New Guinea earlier this year undertook an intensive two-week training program in Darwin, before beginning roles in local early learning services.

The graduates were officially recognised this month at CDU graduation ceremonies in Katherine and Alice Springs, where they received Statements of Attainment through CDU’s Educator Preparation Program.

Two of the new educators, Hellen Toak and Benita Paita, are now working at Kentish Early Learning Centre in Katherine. Both described the program as a valuable addition to their existing Certificate III qualifications, deepening their understanding of the Australian early learning framework and regulations.

“This program really helped us understand how to work within Australian policies, regulations and practices in early learning,” said Ms Toak. “We learned how to support toddlers and young children as they grow, and how to minimise risk in the centres.”

Ms Paita added that the training also refreshed prior learning and prepared them for real-world experience.

The educators will remain in their respective communities for up to four years under the long-term stream of the PALM scheme. Their presence is expected to significantly ease local workforce pressures and expand early learning access for families.

CDU Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive TAFE Michael Hamilton noted the impact the graduates will have.

“These educators will allow up to 100 additional places for children, easing pressure on families and services in Katherine and Alice Springs,” he said. “It’s an incredibly proud moment for CDU and a rewarding experience for our training teams.”

The PALM scheme continues to play a vital role in strengthening the regional early childhood workforce, with the ECEC pilot offering a sustainable pipeline of qualified and prepared educators for high-demand communities.

For more on the PALM scheme, visit here.