A pay rise to address the workforce crisis in early childhood education and care has been recommended in a major new report examining the sector.
In findings released today, the Jobs and Skills Australia report The Future of the Early Childhood Education Profession found current workforce levels are not sustainable to even meet current levels of demand.
It also states that workforce shortages are apparent in most regions across major cities, regional and remote Australia and are forecast to persist over the next 10 years
The report, commissioned by the Australian Government, also recommends that governments should contribute funding to drive long-term wage growth for ECEC workers.
“The report’s finding that the workforce is 8% below where it should be right now to meet current demand shows just how bad things are for educators and those depending on them,” said United Workers Union Early Education Director, Carolyn Smith.
“This report is important because it shows in full the workforce crisis affecting early childhood education and care, and therefore impacting the families and kids who rely on these services.
“The report is also important because it recommends and supports the Federal Government’s current move to lift wages in the sector.
“In recognising the link between entrenched low wages and the disincentive for educators to either work in the sector or stick around, this report offers a blueprint to reform a sector that is vital to families and vital to children’s futures.”
The Union has welcomed news that the Federal Government has already committed to delivering a 15% pay rise to address the crisis.
“On top of Job and Skills Australia’s recommendations for an upwards shift in award wages, the report also recommends improved and higher wage levels for mid-career educators to build better career progression in the sector.”
“It also recommends several measures that will be warmly welcomed by educators, including paid study leave, a reconsideration of HECS settings for educators and better pathways for First Nations educators,” said Ms Smith.
