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CHILDCARE & EDUCATION INDUSTRY
MARKET SIZE & ECONOMIC IMPACT
Australia’s childcare and education industry is a cornerstone of the country’s social infrastructure and a powerful driver of both economic participation and future workforce development. The sector employs more than 200,000 early childhood educators and contributes an estimated $15 billion annually to the national economy. It supports millions of working families, enabling parents and guardians—especially women—to participate in the workforce while ensuring children receive quality early learning experiences.
The industry spans a wide range of services including long day care, family day care, outside school hours care, kindergarten, and preschool education. With rising birth rates, increased workforce participation, and a national focus on school readiness, the demand for qualified early childhood educators and support staff continues to grow across both metropolitan and regional areas.
Childcare and early learning play a vital role in social equity, cognitive development, and lifelong educational outcomes. Studies show that high-quality early education is directly linked to better academic performance, social skills, and emotional resilience in later life. As such, the sector is not just a facilitator of economic productivity—it’s also a foundational investment in Australia’s future generations.
Government subsidies such as the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) and recent reforms under the National Early Childhood Strategy are helping to make childcare more accessible and affordable for families, while also boosting demand for skilled professionals in the sector. With a renewed emphasis on play-based learning, cultural inclusion, and trauma-informed care, the early childhood workforce is more important than ever. As demand continues to rise and policy evolves, the industry presents a secure, purpose-driven career path—offering a unique opportunity to shape the lives of children and support the broader social and economic fabric of Australia.
EMERGING TRENDS & FUTURE OUTLOOK
Australia’s childcare and early education industry is evolving rapidly in response to growing demand, shifting family dynamics, and new research on early childhood development. As the sector moves beyond traditional care models, there is a strong focus on delivering high-quality, inclusive, and developmentally informed learning environments that support every child’s unique needs and potential.
One of the most significant trends is the integration of educational and wellbeing frameworks, where educators work closely with allied health professionals, families, and community services to support children with diverse learning needs, developmental delays, or trauma backgrounds. This collaborative, wraparound model ensures that children receive early intervention and consistent support from a young age.
There is also a growing emphasis on trauma-informed and culturally responsive care—particularly when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, children from migrant and refugee families, and those in vulnerable family situations. Educators are increasingly being trained in inclusive teaching practices, positive behaviour support, and mental health first aid to ensure safe and nurturing environments for all learners. Technology is also playing a larger role in early learning centres, with platforms for child development tracking, digital portfolios, and parent engagement apps becoming the norm. These tools enhance communication, streamline reporting, and allow educators to personalise learning experiences more effectively.
Looking ahead, the sector is set to expand significantly due to reforms under the National Children’s Education and Care Workforce Strategy, increased government investment, and the rollout of universal pre-kindergarten programs. This is creating high demand for skilled educators and leaders who are passionate about early childhood learning, inclusive education, and community engagement. The future of the industry is grounded in nurturing, play-based, and evidence-led practice—offering a fulfilling and stable career path for those committed to shaping the next generation and supporting Australia’s social and economic resilience.
Early Childhood Educator
Gender Representation
97% Female
Median Age
33
Median Weekly Earnings
$1059
Average Weekly Hours
36 Hours
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
An Early Childhood Educator supports the development, learning, and wellbeing of children aged 0–5 through play-based learning programs in childcare centres, kindergartens, or early learning settings. They plan and deliver activities that promote cognitive, emotional, physical, and social growth, all while ensuring children are safe, engaged, and supported.
Educators work closely with families to understand each child's needs and provide a nurturing environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and resilience. They observe and document developmental milestones, prepare learning materials, and maintain a structured yet flexible daily routine. This role is ideal for patient, enthusiastic individuals who genuinely enjoy working with young children and helping them learn through play and discovery. Strong communication skills, teamwork, and a caring nature are essential. To work as an Early Childhood Educator, a Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care is required, along with a Working with Children Check and first aid training.
CURRENT & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Specialise in Inclusive and Developmental Practice
With additional training or mentoring, you can focus on areas such as:
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Infant and toddler development
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Supporting children with disabilities or developmental delays
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Trauma-informed practice and behaviour guidance
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Cultural inclusion and bilingual learning environments
Step Into Leadership & Management Roles
Move into roles where you support both children and teams by becoming a:
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Room Leader or Lead Educator
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Educational Leader guiding curriculum across the service
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Centre Director overseeing staffing, operations, and compliance
Teach the Next Generation of Educators
Use your experience to help shape the workforce by becoming a:
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TAFE or RTO Trainer & Assessor delivering Cert III & Diploma courses
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Mentor or Supervisor for students on placement or new educators
Transition Across the Education & Care Sector
Your skills can carry into related roles such as:
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Primary School Teacher (with a Bachelor of Education)
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Family support worker or parenting group facilitator
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Child development or allied health assistant roles
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Community engagement, outreach, or early years policy
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
CORE SKILLS YOU NEED
Child Development Knowledge
Communication with Children & Families
Planning & Documentation
Teamwork & Collaboration
Patience & Emotional Resilience
Are you passionate about helping children learn, grow, and feel safe? Becoming an Early Childhood Educator gives you the chance to shape the early years of a child’s life—supporting their development through play, learning, and care in a nurturing environment.
You don’t need previous experience—just a warm nature, patience, and a willingness to learn. With the right training, you’ll be ready to work in long day care centres, kindergartens, family day care, or preschool settings. To become an Early Childhood Educator, you’ll typically need to complete a nationally recognised qualification such as:
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
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Short Courses in Behaviour Guidance, Inclusive Education, or Trauma-Informed Practice
GET QUALIFIED TO START YOUR CAREER
Childcare Worker
Gender Representation
97% Female
Median Age
34
Median Weekly Earnings
$1059
Average Weekly Hours
39 Hours
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
A Childcare Worker provides hands-on care and support to children in long day care, family day care, or occasional care settings. They assist with routines such as feeding, toileting, rest time, and play, while fostering a warm, inclusive atmosphere where children feel safe, respected, and valued.
Childcare Workers work under the guidance of Early Childhood Educators and Room Leaders to implement age-appropriate activities that encourage learning and development. They may help with indoor and outdoor play, reading, music, arts and crafts, and basic learning exercises. They are also responsible for supervising children at all times, maintaining a clean and safe environment, and supporting positive behaviour and social interaction.
This role is suited to nurturing, reliable individuals who are passionate about early childhood and have the energy to keep up with active young minds. A Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is generally required to work in most regulated settings.
CURRENT & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Specialise in Early Learning Support
Further training or experience can lead to specialist roles such as:
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Inclusion Support Assistant for children with additional needs
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Infant or toddler specialist with a deep understanding of early development
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Behaviour support or trauma-informed care assistant
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Bilingual or culturally inclusive educator, supporting diverse communities
Step Into Leadership & Coordination Roles
With a Diploma or more experience, move into roles such as:
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Lead Educator / Room Leader overseeing daily programs and routines
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Educational Leader guiding curriculum and reflective practice
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Centre Director or Assistant Director, managing operations, staffing, and parent communication
Teach or Mentor Future Educators
Your experience can support the next generation of childcare professionals by:
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Becoming a TAFE or RTO Trainer & Assessor delivering qualifications in early childhood education
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Mentoring new staff or supervising students during placements
Broaden Your Career Across Family & Community Services
Your foundational care skills are transferable into other people-focused roles, such as:
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Family support worker
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Playgroup or parenting program facilitator
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Youth or community services assistant
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Teacher aide or education support officer in school settings
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
Do you love working with little ones and making a difference during their most important years? Becoming a Childcare Worker is a rewarding way to support children’s wellbeing, learning, and growth in early education and care settings.
You don’t need previous experience—just a nurturing attitude, energy, and a willingness to learn. With the right training, you’ll be ready to work in long day care centres, family day care, kindergartens, or outside school hours care. To start your career as a Childcare Worker, you’ll typically need to complete a nationally recognised qualification such as:
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
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Short Courses in Behaviour Guidance, Child Protection, or Inclusive Practice
GET QUALIFIED TO START YOUR CAREER
CORE SKILLS YOU NEED
Understanding Child Development
Clear & Nurturing Communication
Teamwork & Collaboration
Organisation & Routine Management
Patience & Emotional Resilience
Preschool Assistant
Gender Representation
98% Female
Median Age
46
Median Weekly Earnings
$951
Average Weekly Hours
38 Hours
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
A Preschool Assistant supports the lead teacher or educator in a preschool or kindergarten setting, helping children aged 3–5 build school readiness skills in a structured learning environment. They assist with daily routines, set up activities, and provide individualised support to children during group time, play, and learning tasks.
Preschool Assistants play a key role in developing children’s early literacy, numeracy, and social skills through storytelling, music, games, and creative play. They also help monitor developmental progress and assist in communicating with families about children’s needs or achievements. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with preschool-aged children and can work collaboratively as part of a team. Patience, creativity, and strong communication skills are essential. Most positions require a Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, and some preschool assistants may also work towards becoming lead educators or room leaders.
CURRENT & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Specialise in Early Years Support
Further training or on-the-job experience can lead to focused support roles, such as:
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Inclusion Support Assistant for children with additional or diverse needs
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Bilingual or multicultural support educator, helping bridge language gaps
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Sensory play and behaviour guidance assistant
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Kindergarten Readiness Facilitator focusing on school transition
Step Into Lead Educator or Room Leader Roles
By progressing your qualifications, you can move into:
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Lead Educator / Room Leader managing a group’s daily routine and learning experiences
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Educational Leader guiding teaching practice and curriculum planning
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Assistant Director, helping manage service operations and team development
Become a Trainer or Placement Mentor
With experience and further study, you may:
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Train future educators through an RTO or TAFE, delivering Certificate III or Diploma courses
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Mentor placement students or new staff members within your centre
Explore Broader Community & Education Roles
Your experience can lead into adjacent career paths such as:
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Teacher Aide or Education Support Officer in primary schools
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Playgroup or family support facilitator
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Child development or allied health assistant roles
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Community engagement or outreach work supporting families and carers
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
CORE SKILLS YOU NEED
Child Development Awareness
Supportive & Clear Communication
Team
Collaboration
Routine & Task Management
Patience & Adaptability
Are you ready to play a hands-on role in shaping the early years of a child’s life? As a Preschool Assistant, you’ll support educators in delivering fun, engaging, and nurturing programs that prepare children for school and lifelong learning.
You don’t need previous experience—just a kind nature, reliability, and a genuine love for helping children grow. With the right training, you'll be ready to work in kindergartens, early learning centres, and preschool programs. To start your journey as a Preschool Assistant, you’ll typically need to complete a nationally recognised qualification such as:
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
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Short Courses in Child Protection, Behaviour Support, or Inclusive Practice
GET QUALIFIED TO START YOUR CAREER
Nanny
Gender Representation
98% Female
Median Age
27
Median Weekly Earnings
$1059
Average Weekly Hours
42 Hours
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
A Nanny provides personalised care for children in the home, either on a full-time, part-time, or casual basis. Unlike childcare centre roles, nannies typically work with one family and are responsible for overseeing children’s routines, preparing meals, managing nap schedules, organising educational and play-based activities, and occasionally handling light household duties related to the children.
Nannies develop close, trusted relationships with both the children and their parents, and must be dependable, flexible, and aligned with the family’s parenting style and values. The role requires initiative, excellent communication, and a genuine love for working with children in a home environment. Some nannies may also support school-aged children with homework or attend outings and extracurricular activities. While formal qualifications are not always required, many families prefer nannies who hold a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, a current Working with Children Check, First Aid and CPR certification, and prior experience in a similar role.
CURRENT & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Specialise in Niche or High-Need Care
Many nannies choose to build expertise in areas such as:
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Newborn or infant care (including sleep routines and early feeding)
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Disability or additional needs support within the home
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Bilingual or culturally specific caregiving
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Travel or live-in nanny roles with flexible or international placement options
Progress to Private or High-Level Household Roles
With experience and a strong reputation, nannies may:
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Become a Household Manager overseeing routines, tutoring, and scheduling
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Work with high-profile or executive families seeking premium, long-term care
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Transition into Nanny Agency Coordinator or Family Support Consultant roles
Teach or Mentor in Early Education
Expand your qualifications and shift into formal education by becoming a:
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Preschool Assistant or Early Childhood Educator
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TAFE or RTO Trainer teaching childcare qualifications
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Private tutor or homeschooling support worker
Branch into Allied Support or Community Services
Your skills in personal care, communication, and organisation open doors to:
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Child and family support services
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Disability or aged care assistance roles
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Parent education and nanny mentoring within agencies or training programs
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
CORE SKILLS YOU NEED
Age-Appropriate Care
Clear & Gentle Communication
Routine Management
Adaptability &
Initiative
Discretion & Professionalism
Do you love caring for children in a one-on-one setting and creating a nurturing environment where they feel safe and supported? Becoming a Nanny is a deeply rewarding career that offers flexibility, trust-based relationships, and the chance to make a lasting impact on a family’s life.
You don’t need formal teaching experience to get started—just a caring personality, strong initiative, and a willingness to learn. With the right training, you’ll stand out to families and agencies, opening up opportunities for long-term or specialist roles. To become a Nanny, it’s recommended you complete a nationally recognised qualification such as:
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
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Short Courses in Infant Care, First Aid (HLTAID012), Sleep Support, or Nutrition
GET QUALIFIED TO START YOUR CAREER
Childcare Centre Manager
Gender Representation
94% Female
Median Age
41
Median Weekly Earnings
$1412
Average Weekly Hours
41 Hours
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
A Childcare Centre Manager oversees the overall operation of an early learning centre, ensuring it provides a high-quality, safe, and nurturing environment for children, families, and staff. They are responsible for managing enrolments, budgeting, staffing, regulatory compliance, and day-to-day centre operations. This leadership role involves mentoring educators, supporting curriculum delivery, maintaining strong relationships with families, and ensuring the centre meets or exceeds national quality standards. Centre Managers also handle communication with regulatory bodies and are responsible for audits, reporting, and continuous improvement planning.
The role requires excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as a deep understanding of early childhood education frameworks, child protection, and compliance. It’s ideal for someone with experience in early education who is ready to step into a management role that combines operational oversight with educational leadership. A Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care is typically required, along with significant experience in a senior educator or assistant director role.
CURRENT & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Specialise in Strategic Leadership & Compliance
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As regulatory frameworks evolve, there is growing demand for centre managers who can lead with a strong understanding of compliance, funding, and quality standards.
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Opportunities to specialise in curriculum design, quality improvement, or operational leadership across multi-site organisations.
Expand into Sector Development Roles
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Experienced managers can transition into policy, training, or consultancy roles—shaping early childhood education frameworks and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
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Career progression into executive-level positions such as Area Manager, Director of Early Learning Services, or Regional Operations Manager.
Embrace Ongoing Professional Development
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Ongoing upskilling in areas like educational leadership, business management, and inclusive practice is encouraged and often supported through government-funded training.
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Formal qualifications in early childhood education, leadership, or centre management remain in high demand.
Respond to Growing Sector Demand
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With Australia’s population growth and the introduction of universal access to early education, the need for qualified and experienced centre managers is expected to rise.
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Increased investment in childcare subsidies and workforce initiatives means stable career growth and strong job security in the sector.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
CORE SKILLS YOU NEED
Leadership & Staff Development
Compliance Knowledge
Operational Management
Parent & Community Engagement
Quality
Improvement
Do you see yourself leading a passionate team of educators while shaping the future of early learning? As a Childcare Centre Manager, you’ll be responsible for the smooth running of a centre, ensuring children are thriving, families are supported, and quality standards are met every day.
You don’t need to start with management experience—just a strong foundation in early childhood education, great communication skills, and a genuine commitment to high-quality care. With the right training, you’ll be ready to lead kindergartens, long day care centres, or early learning services. To start your journey as a Childcare Centre Manager, you’ll typically need to complete a nationally recognised qualification such as:
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
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Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
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Short Courses in Leadership, Compliance, or Risk Management
GET QUALIFIED TO START YOUR CAREER
School-Based Education Assistant
Gender Representation
92% Female
Median Age
47
Median Weekly Earnings
$1067
Average Weekly Hours
34 Hours
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
A School-Based Education Assistant supports teachers in primary or secondary classrooms by helping students with learning activities, classroom routines, and social development. They may work one-on-one with students who have additional needs or support small groups to complete set tasks. Education Assistants help prepare classroom resources, supervise students during non-instructional time, assist with behaviour management, and provide encouragement and practical help to students who may struggle with focus, literacy, or numeracy.
They play an important role in making learning more inclusive and accessible, particularly for students with disabilities, learning difficulties, or English as an additional language. This role is ideal for someone who is patient, caring, and passionate about supporting children and young people to succeed in school. A Certificate III or IV in Education Support is usually required, along with a Working with Children Check and relevant school-based placement or experience.
CURRENT & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Specialise in Diverse Practice Areas
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Support students with autism, ADHD, learning difficulties, or physical disabilities.
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Focus on areas like literacy intervention, behaviour support, or emotional regulation strategies.
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Assist with Indigenous education programs or work with students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Advance into Lead Support Roles
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Progress into Senior Education Assistant, Learning Support Officer, or Inclusion Support roles.
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Take on greater responsibility in developing and delivering small group learning or supporting Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
Develop Skills in Allied Health Collaboration
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Work closely with speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and school psychologists.
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Gain exposure to multidisciplinary approaches to student development and wellbeing.
Pathways into Teaching or Youth Work
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Use your experience and qualifications as a stepping stone to becoming a qualified teacher, youth worker, or wellbeing officer.
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Many Education Assistants go on to study a Bachelor of Education or a Diploma in Youth Work.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
CORE SKILLS YOU NEED
Supportive Communication
Inclusive & Respectful Practice
Classroom Management
Learning
Adaptation
Team
Collaboration
Want to make a difference in the classroom and help children reach their full potential? As a School Based Education Assistant, you'll provide learning and behavioural support to students in primary or secondary school settings.
You don’t need prior experience—just patience, empathy, and a passion for education. With the right training, you’ll be equipped to assist teachers, support diverse learners, and create inclusive classroom environments. To get started in this role, you’ll typically need to complete a nationally recognised qualification such as:
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Certificate III in School Based Education Support
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Certificate IV in School Based Education Support
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Short Courses in Autism Support, Behavioural Strategies, or Inclusive Education