HESTA research reveals workforce opportunities and challenges for early childhood education and care workers

HESTA’s latest State of the Sector workforce research has revealed 61% of early childhood education and care workers reported high role satisfaction - the highest among all health and community services sectors. Additionally, these workers expressed a high level of trust in their employers.

The third State of the Sector workforce research draws on survey responses from over 4,200 members working across the health and community services (HACS) sector. 

Additional findings reveal that 70% of disability services workers and 68% of community services workers enjoy working in their respective industries, with the strong outcomes tied to respondents citing personal reward as the biggest driver of role satisfaction.

Aged care workers reported the equal third highest levels of industry enjoyment at 64%, which was a sharp increase of 10 percentage points since 2020.Similarly, industry enjoyment in the primary health sector rose to 64% in 2024, reflecting a 4% increase since 2022.

HESTA CEO Debby Blakey praised the dedication and support of HACS workers, while often working in high-pressure environments. 

"Our healthcare professionals are the backbone of Australia’s healthcare and social systems, and what stands out in the research is why they are in the industry – to make a difference within our communities," said Ms Blakey. 

“It has been pleasing to see much needed wage increases in some sectors like aged care, childcare and nursing providing more reward for the incredible work and dedication shown by these professionals each day.”

The research, which builds on the 2020 and 2022 surveys, aims to support the sector to address workforce challenges and help improve retirement outcomes. 

Many of HESTA’s one million plus members work in the sectors surveyed, including in aged care, early childhood education and care, primary health and disability and community services. 

The research tapped into adaptation to new technology as well as training capabilities. It found 18% of aged care workers said they had new technology introduced and 67% of those have been provided with training and support, the highest level of technological adoption and preparedness across the health and community services sector.

The survey also explored the challenges experienced by workers within the different sectors. 

Public hospital workers reported high levels of a ‘sense of personal reward’ as well as noting personal relationships as a key driver of enjoyment in their roles. However, overall they had the lowest role satisfaction at 41%, an 8% decline since 2022, citing isolation as a key concern.

Private hospital workers also reported the value of strong bonds with colleagues as a major driver of role enjoyment, alongside a sense of personal reward. Small positive gains have been made since 2022 in industry pride and enjoyment, as well as perceptions of industry flexibility and career opportunities. However, there remain opportunities for further improvement as they reported the second-lowest role satisfaction across the sectors at 44%, with resourcing challenges a key driver of lower morale.

HESTA recently shared the findings with employer groups across all HACS sectors to ensure they have actionable information.

The survey emphasised the need for employers to prioritise actions that foster a supportive workplace, including investing in ways to make employees feel more appreciated, and addressing key drivers of dissatisfaction like under-resourcing.

“We know that the longer people are gainfully employed, the better their retirement outcomes. Our research aims to help employers identify and address challenges their employees are facing, to help improve retention and their preparedness for retirement, and the sustainability of the sector,” Ms Blakey said.

"Healthcare and community services workers are passionate about making a difference, but they also need to feel valued and supported in safe, empowering workplaces. This is critical to ensure they can continue to deliver the exceptional care our communities rely on."