We piloted a website to connect early childhood education and care (ECEC) services and educators in training. The network has now closed.
On this page:
We have closed the practicum exchange network. Thank you for engaging with this important pilot.
About the network
We launched the practicum exchange network in 2024 to help up to 2,000 early childhood educators arrange a practicum.
The network was a dedicated website where ECEC services and educators in training could search for and arrange practicum exchange opportunities. On the network, users could:
- search for services and educators with availability nearby
- connect with each other
- arrange practicums.
The pilot has now concluded and the network is closed.
Why did the network close?
The decision to close the network followed a thorough review of the pilot. We found:
- educators can access practicum placements through a range of established and trusted websites
- our resources will have greater impact if redirected to the professional development subsidy, which is in high demand and delivers strong benefits for the workforce.
While the network has closed, educators can continue to access practicum placements through established channels, including:
- state and territory government websites
- registered training organisations
- universities
- ECEC providers.
I used the network – do I need to do anything?
Thank you for engaging with this important pilot. Through your involvement, we’ve gained valuable insights into how to better support practicum arrangements and strengthen the ECEC workforce.
You don’t need to take any action. All personal information on the network has been handled in accordance with our privacy policy.
What about the living and travel allowance?
Educators who used the network to complete a practicum in a regional or remote area may have been eligible for a living and travel allowance. Applications for the allowance were open to providers between 14 July 2025 and 19 September 2025.
If you successfully applied, you will still receive your payment. There will not be any further rounds.
What if I have questions?
If you have questions, contact us at pracsupport@education.gov.au.