ACA Queensland and CAECE appoint dedicated General Managers in strategic move to strengthen independent leadership

The Board of Directors of the Australian Childcare Alliance Queensland (ACA Qld) and the College of Australian Early Childhood Educators (CAECE) are pleased to announce a significant structural change, transitioning from a shared General Manager model to independent leadership from 18 May 2026. 

“This move reflects the growth and ambition of both organisations and their commitment to fulfilling their respective missions across the early childhood education and care sector,” says Majella Fitzsimmons, ACA Qld President and CAECE Board Director. 

“CAECE has achieved outstanding results in lifting the completion rates of aspiring early childhood educators in Queensland, we’ve experienced an 84% pass rate in the last calendar year, where the national average is 57%,” Fitzsimmons says. “The sector needs a well-trained, job-ready, enthusiastic and passionate workforce; that’s what children and families deserve. CAECE is achieving this, and it deserves the full attention of Phillip Charlton, who will continue as the CAECE Executive General Manager.” 

“ACA QLD warmly welcomes Carly Irving-Dolan to the role of Executive General Manager,” Fitzsimmons says. “Carly commenced her career in our sector, has grown and developed new skills across other industries, and will be critical in bringing people together and supporting our members. Carly is passionate about strengthening the early learning sector and advocating for children, families, and educators.” 

“Stepping into this role is a privilege,” says Carly Irving-Dolan, incoming Executive General Manager of ACA Qld. “My purpose has always been to lead with people, partnership, and practical impact, and the early learning sector has shaped so much of who I am today. Staying connected over these years through mentoring and board work has kept me grounded in what truly matters. I’m looking forward to supporting the sector and joining a team that has already done such incredible work. Together with educators, families, partners, and our community, we’ll continue strengthening the foundations every child needs - shaping the strong foundations every future deserves.” 

The Board of Directors acknowledges there will be a brief transition period, but that this is ultimately a strategic move required to enable ACA Qld and CAECE to focus on their respective responsibilities. Both organisations remain essential collaborators in advancing workforce and sector outcomes across early childhood education and care.