KU Children’s Services wins Employer of Choice for 10th year in a row a national first in the early childhood sector

KU Children’s Services (KU), one of Australia’s leading not for profit providers of early childhood education, has once again been named an Employer of Choice in The Australian Business Awards, marking an extraordinary 10 consecutive years of recognition.

KU is the only early childhood education provider in Australia to have achieved this prestigious milestone, underscoring its enduring commitment to creating a workplace where all employees are valued and supported to thrive.

This recognition reinforces KU’s position as the nation’s leading employer in early childhood education, defining the benchmark for its exceptional workplace culture, professional development opportunities and deep focus on employee wellbeing and inclusion.

“To be recognised as an Employer of Choice for the 10th consecutive year is a truly remarkable achievement. It’s a testament to the dedication of our people and the strong, values-based culture that defines KU. We’re proud to create a workplace where every individual feels respected, supported and empowered to make a real difference in children’s lives,” said Christine Legg, CEO of KU Children’s Services.

With a team of over 2,000 professionals, KU’s success reflects its longstanding belief that quality early education begins with investing in staff. That commitment is reflected in KU’s recently approved Enterprise Agreements, which set a benchmark in delivering some of the most progressive pay and conditions in the sector.

This approach has helped KU’s workforce consistently deliver the sector’s highest-quality early childhood education in the country, with 68% of KU services rated as ‘Exceeding’ the National Quality Standard, compared to 21% across the sector (Source: Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority, 2025, Oct).

Ms Legg continued, “We’ve built a culture that empowers our people to deliver safe, high-quality, inclusive learning to young children. By listening to our staff, investing in their development, and providing meaningful career pathways, KU continues to shape a future where both our people and our not for profit purpose flourish together.”

The Australian Business Award for Employer of Choice acknowledges organisations that demonstrate industry-leading practices in Culture, Leadership and Strategy; Education, Training and Development; Performance, Recognition and Remuneration; and Health, Safety and Satisfaction.

As KU celebrates 10 years of recognised excellence, their focus remains firmly on the future, continuing to nurture a culture of inclusion, collaboration and innovation that allows educators to shape brighter beginnings for children, families and communities.

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