Dr Jess Walsh named new Minister for Early Childhood Education following cabinet reshuffle

Senator Dr Jess Walsh has been appointed as Australia’s new Minister for Early Childhood Education and Minister for Youth, following a cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Dr Walsh replaces Dr Anne Aly, who has moved to the portfolios of Small Business, International Development and Multicultural Affairs.

The appointment is part of a broader cabinet reshuffle and places early learning under the leadership of a Senator with a strong record in workforce advocacy and social equity.

Dr Walsh has served as a Labor Senator for Victoria since 2019. Before entering federal politics, she was Victorian Secretary of United Voice, one of Australia’s largest unions representing early childhood educators and care workers. She also holds a PhD in labour studies and has conducted research on workforce conditions both in Australia and the United States.

Her background in workforce organising and research has shaped her policy priorities, particularly in advocating for fair pay, job security and public investment in early education and care.

Dr Walsh has regularly spoken in support of early childhood educators, calling for fairer wages and stronger professional recognition. In a 2024 Budget statement, she described early childhood educators as “skilled professionals doing essential work” and welcomed continued government investment in the sector.

She has also publicly backed early learning reform and reinforced the importance of early education in supporting both child development and workforce participation.

Her appointment continues the Government’s efforts to expand preschool access, strengthen the early childhood workforce and improve service equity nationwide.

Dr Anne Aly, who held the early childhood portfolio since 2022, helped guide early stages of preschool reform and the National Early Years Strategy. Her move into new roles leaves a foundation for Dr Walsh to build on in collaboration with states, territories and service leaders.

Educators and providers will be listening for Dr Walsh’s early signals on workforce priorities, affordability and access, as the next phase of policy delivery begins.