Supporting early educators’ wellbeing in ‘ChildcareDeserts’

As the crisis in the early childhood sector deepens, and families are unable to access early learning in 'Childcare Deserts', a grass roots pilot program is trying to improve educator wellbeing and stem the flow of educators out of the sector. These areas represent almost all of regional, rural and remote Australia, and low SES metropolitan areas.

Why is there an educator shortage?

Since before the pandemic, many early childhood educators have been leaving the sector due to poor conditions, low wages (13th lowest in the country), low status, and overwork. During the pandemic, educators were forced to work during lockdowns, meaning their physical and mental health has worsened as they report feelings of burnout and neglect.

Once the aged care sector was given a 15% wage rise, a large number of educators moved into a better paying job. This means they are better able to pay their bills during a cost of living crisis. Additionally, many have been able to move into other sectors due to the low unemployment levels. These high levels of attrition have meant the number of vacancies in the industry have more than doubled since the pandemic.