Early Childhood Educators invited to have their say in National Sector Survey 

The Fraser Foundation launches Voice of the Educator Survey 2026 to capture the realities, pressures and priorities of Australia’s early learning workforce 

Australia’s early childhood educators are being invited to share their experiences directly as part of a new national survey designed to better understand the realities of working in the early learning sector. 

Launched by The Fraser Foundation, the Voice of the Educator Survey 2026 is one of the most comprehensive listening projects undertaken for Australia’s early childhood education and care workforce. 

Delivered in partnership with Australian social research agency McCrindle, the survey will capture what educators value about their work, the pressures they are facing, and what support they believe is needed to strengthen the future of the profession. 

The survey is open to early childhood educators and professionals across Australia, including centre directors, early childhood teachers, educators, assistants and support staff. 

The Fraser Foundation Founder, Jae Fraser, said the survey was created to give educators a direct and meaningful voice in the conversations shaping their sector. 

“Educators are at the heart of early learning, but they are not always the ones being asked what needs to change,” Mr Fraser said. 

“This survey is about listening properly. We want to understand what is working, what is placing pressure on educators, and what they believe is needed to better support the profession. 

“The findings will help build an evidence base that can be used to inform advocacy, policy discussions and sector-wide decision making.” 

The survey is confidential, anonymous and reported only in aggregate. It takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete.

Findings from the Voice of the Educator Survey 2026 will be published later this year in a visual report and infographic summary, providing the sector with fresh insights into the experiences and priorities of Australia’s early childhood workforce. 

Mr Fraser said the survey was also an opportunity to elevate the stories and perspectives of educators who often feel unheard. 

“This is a chance for educators to say the things they may not always get the opportunity to say,” he said. “No spin. No filter. Just their voice.” 

The Voice of the Educator Survey 2026 is commissioned by The Fraser Foundation and delivered in partnership with a coalition of industry stakeholders, including: 

● McCrindle as research partner, bringing independent research methodology to the project 

● Australian Childcare Alliance, the peak body representing the early learning sector 

● Child Care Super, the industry superannuation fund built for early childhood professionals 

Together, the partners will support national participation across the sector, with the goal of ensuring educators from every state and territory have the opportunity to contribute. 

Educators who complete the survey can also choose to enter the draw to win one of four $1,000 gift vouchers. Entry is optional and not required to participate. The survey is now open here.