New initiative supports educator retention in regional Western Australia

Early learning services in Kalgoorlie-Boulder will benefit from a new local government grant aimed at boosting educator morale and retention through financial support.

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder has introduced an Early Education Workforce Grant, offering eligible early childhood education and care (ECEC) providers the opportunity to fund initiatives that support and retain their teams.

This targeted investment aims to address workforce challenges in the region by empowering services to implement staff bonuses, wellbeing measures and professional learning opportunities.

City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Mayor Glenn Wilson said the program was developed in response to local needs and the national educator shortage.

“Early learning is a vital part of our community infrastructure, and we’re committed to supporting the educators who provide this essential service,” Mr Wilson said.

The initiative was shaped through collaboration with service leaders to ensure it meets the practical needs of providers and reflects the realities of working in a regional ECEC setting.

To learn more about the program, visit the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder website.