Nominations for HESTA’s Early Childhood Education & Care Awards now open 

Nominations for the popular HESTA Early Childhood Education & Care Awards are now open, giving the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector an opportunity to recognise the front-line educators and carers at the heart of Australia’s early childhood education system.

Now in their 11th year, the Awards are a pivotal element in the Australian ECEC calendar, with winners sharing in a prize pool of $30,000 thanks to the support of longstanding HESTA Awards sponsor ME (a subsidiary of Bank of Queensland – BOQ).

“At ME, we are profoundly proud to support these awards that celebrate the extraordinary commitment and accomplishments of Australia’s early childhood educators and carers,” BOQ Group Executive of Retail Banking Greg Boyle said. 

“The individuals in this sector are moulding the future generations of Australia, providing our children with optimal opportunities to unlock their potential.” 

Prize money obtained through the Awards can be used for personal or professional development or further development of processes or services in the workplace.

Anyone involved in the delivery of these services can nominate, or be nominated, across three categories, including Advancing Pedagogy & Practice, Individual Leadership and Outstanding Service. Employers, colleagues, and the community are all encouraged to nominate.

The Awards, HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said, are an opportunity to highlight some of the leading lights in a critical sector for Australian families and the economy.

“Nominating a deserving early childhood professional or team will help shine a spotlight on the remarkable impact they have on the lives of children and families. I encourage anyone considering nominating to take the time to do so,” she said.

“Early childhood educators are essential in nurturing the minds of our youngest learners. Through the annual awards, I’m delighted HESTA can help promote the vital work of early childhood educators.”

Nominations close at midnight AEST on 15 June 2025. Winners will be announced at an Awards dinner in Perth on 3 October 2025.

Learn more about the Awards or submit a nomination here. Image shows L to R: 2024 winners Katrina Hendry from KU Children’s Services, Tearne Martin, Centre Director of Goodstart Early Learning Tuggerah and Kellie Aldrige, C&K Walkervale Community Kindergarten Teacher and Director.