How New Government Policies Are Creating More Jobs in Early Learning

Monday, August 11, 2025

The early childhood education sector has been undergoing a shift over the last couple of years, and it’s opening the door to more job opportunities than ever before.

While families are welcoming greater access to care and education, behind the scenes, new government reforms and funding boosts are reshaping the sector in powerful ways.

Thanks to a combination of government reforms, funding increases, and a growing focus on accessible, high-quality education, there’s now a stronger demand for qualified early childhood professionals. In turn, this means it’s now the ideal time to consider a career in early learning.

Wage increases are making early learning careers more viable

One of the biggest changes is the wage boost introduced in the 2025 Federal Budget. With a $3.6 billion investment in worker retention, early learning professionals are now seeing up to a 15% increase in wages.

That means weekly pay could rise by as much as $249 depending on your role, which is an important step forward in recognising the value of this essential workforce and encouraging more people to pursue early childhood education as a long-term career.

Infrastructure driving job creation

Victoria remains committed to its Best Start, Best Life reforms, and the 2025–26 State Budget continues to support Free Kinder and expanded Three year-old kindergarten alongside the rollout of 50 government-owned early learning and childcare centres (expected to be completed by 2032).

These new services, together with school-site kinders and provider partnerships, are creating demand for educators at all qualification levels.

Workforce strategies are prioritising growth

Across the country, the need to build the early childhood education workforce is clear. Committed, kind and qualified educators are required to shape a bright future for children.

Under the government’s Shaping Our Future workforce strategy, Jobs and Skills Australia estimates the sector needs to grow by at least 16% to keep up with demand!

Growth is especially urgent for early childhood teacher roles, which require over 5% annual growth. As families increasingly rely on early learning services, the pressure is on to recruit and retain skilled professionals who can support children’s development during the vital early years. This means, if you’ve been thinking about a taking this pass, there’s no time like the present for your passion to be valued and turned into a rewarding career.

The time to step into early learning is now

What all of this means is simple: there’s never been a better time to build a fulfilling career in early childhood education.

With better pay, more job opportunities, and a clear path for sustainable professional growth, it’s an ideal moment to get qualified and start making an impact.

At Practical Outcomes, we’re committed to helping people take the next step. That might be through a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care to get you started in the sector, or progressing to a Diploma.

With flexible study options, supportive trainers, and hands-on placement opportunities, we’re here to help you thrive in this growing sector.

Want to learn more about where a career in early learning could take you? Get in touch with us today to find the right course and pathway for your goals.