2026 Excellence in Family Day Care Awards: regional winners announced 

Outstanding family day care educators from across Australia have been recognised as  Regional Winners in the 2026 Excellence in Family Day Care Awards. 

Educators representing 71 regions nationwide have received the honour, recognising their  commitment to delivering high-quality early childhood education and care and the  important contribution they make to children, families and their local communities. 

Celebrating its 15th year in 2026, the Excellence in Family Day Care Awards shines a light on  the vital role of family day care and the unique benefits of a flexible, home-based approach  to early childhood education and care, chosen by 44,690 Australian families. 

As the only national awards program dedicated exclusively to family day care, the Awards  recognise educators who successfully combine running their own small business with  providing nurturing, responsive and individualised education and care that supports  children’s learning, development and wellbeing. 

Family Day Care Australia Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Paterson, congratulated all  regional winners on their achievements. 

“Our 2026 Regional Winners represent the dedication, passion and care that sit at the heart  of family day care. Every day, they create nurturing environments where children can learn,  grow and thrive, while building strong and meaningful relationships with children and families.  

We are proud to celebrate their achievements and the valuable contribution they make to  their communities.” 

Each year, the Excellence in Family Day Care Awards recognise the outstanding work of  educators who provide education and care to more than 62,500 children across the country.  

“Receiving over 4,200 nominations from families, services and community members is an  incredible response and a wonderful vote of confidence in family day care.  

Behind every nomination is a story of an educator or service making a positive difference in  the lives of children and families, and that is something worth celebrating.” Mr Paterson said. 

The regional winners are now in the running to be named as a National Finalist for the 2026 Educator of the Year Award. 

To view the full list of the winners, visit www.familydaycare.com.au/awards/winners 

Four National Educator Finalists will be announced on 20 October 2026 with FDCA’s Educator  of the Year Winner being announced on 28 November 2026 at the Awards Gala Dinner, to  be held at the Pullman Brisbane King George Square.