Inclusion and community partnerships in focus among Victorian Early Years Awards finalists

Early childhood teachers, educators, services and programs are shortlisted across nine categories recognising contributions to children’s learning, development and wellbeing.

The 2026 Victorian Early Years Awards finalists include early childhood teachers and educators strengthening inclusive practice, programs that support families, and partnerships that help children access early learning.

The awards recognise and celebrate work across early childhood education and care, allied health, maternal and child health services and community playgroups. Category winners will receive $15,000 for professional development or to support their nominated initiative.

“The Victorian Early Years Awards celebrate and recognise the entire early years sector,” the Department of Education states in its awards overview.

Teachers and educators recognised

Early Childhood Teacher of the Year finalists are Connie Aldamiz from Shine Bright Millewa Kindergarten, Diah Hastuti from Dill-be-din Kindergarten and Carly Martin from Kinglake Ranges Children’s Centre.

Krystal Blyth from Melton World of Learning, Julie Joyce from Coburg Children’s Centre and Cerri May from Gowrie at The Harbour are shortlisted for Educator of the Year.

Their published profiles highlight approaches including family partnerships, inclusive communication and children’s participation in decisions. Joyce’s profile describes how Auslan and Deaf culture are included in everyday learning.

Partnerships support children and families

The finalist projects also recognise collaboration beyond individual services. Foundation House’s Family Voices Matter initiative brings refugee-background families and early years providers together to identify barriers and develop practical resources.

Other shortlisted programs include VICSEG New Futures’ supported playgroups and the Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency’s Bringing Up Aboriginal Babies at Home program.

These entries sit within categories recognising access and participation, parenting support, community partnerships, health and wellbeing, and continuity of learning. The full profiles provide examples of how services are responding to their communities.

Recognition extends to leadership and cultural practice

The awards also recognise educational leadership through the Emeritus Professor Collette Tayler Excellence in Educational Leadership Award.

The Aunty Rose Bamblett Koorie Early Years Legacy Award acknowledges services supporting Aboriginal children and families through culturally responsive provision and community partnerships.

Finalists across all categories are eligible for the Minister’s Award, selected by the Minister for Children. 

The full finalist list and profiles are available on the Victorian Government website.