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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.
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.
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