Early childhood education and care (ECEC) providers can once again apply for professional development subsidies to support their workforce.
The professional development subsidy helps eligible staff undertake training that adds to their skills.
The paid practicum subsidy allows providers to give staff paid leave while undertaking practicums.
The 2 measures are part of the Australian Government’s $72.4 million workforce package being delivered from 2023–24 to 2026–27. These measures are designed to help build a sustainable, skilled ECEC workforce delivering high quality early childhood education.
The professional development subsidy supported more than:
- 23,500 educators through a $12.56 million investment in 2023–24
- 60,100 educators through a $17.18 million investment in 2024–25.
The paid practicum subsidy supported approximately:
- 750 educators through a $3.21 million investment in 2023–24
- 2,100 educators through a $12.53 million investment in 2024–25.
In addition to the 2 subsidies, a new living and travel allowance will be available for up to 100 educators who use the practicum exchange network to complete a practicum in a rural or remote location.
The practicum exchange network is a dedicated website that connects early childhood education and care services with educators in training.
Minister for Early Childhood Education, Senator the Hon Dr Jess Walsh said:
“I want to ensure that children have a positive, rewarding and safe early education experience so they get the best possible start in life.
“These grants help to build and retain our existing highly skilled early learning workforce.
“Creating a stable workforce also paves the way for our plans to continue expanding access to quality early education, starting with our 3 Day Guarantee that comes in from January next year.”
Applications close 19 September 2025.
To find out more, go to professional development opportunities.