Australia is one of the most popular destinations for skilled migrants, including those in the childcare sector. Having a growing population and a strong focus on early childhood education, Australia offers many opportunities for migrant childcare workers to build rewarding careers.
For those considering a move or career shift to childcare in Australia, it’s important to understand where the best job opportunities are, who the biggest employers are, and what qualities and requirements are expected. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
Childcare services in Australia are in high demand, driven by the government’s emphasis on early childhood education and care. This includes long day care centres, family day care, and outside school hours care services.
Childcare workers (also known as early childhood educators) are responsible for creating safe, nurturing, and stimulating environments for children. They work with children from birth to school age, supporting their social, emotional, and cognitive development.
The sector is regulated by the National Quality Framework (NQF), which sets standards to ensure high-quality education and care services across the country. This means that wherever you choose to work, you are expected to abide by the professional standards and supportive environments.
Best states for migrant childcare workers
While there is demand for childcare workers across Australia, some states stand out for their job opportunities, competitive salaries, and supportive communities.
New South Wales
NSW, home to Sydney, is Australia’s most populous state and has the largest childcare sector. The state is experiencing a significant surge in demand for early childhood educators, driven by government investment and population growth.
NSW is projected to need the highest number of new educators by 2036, making it a top destination for skilled migrants in childcare.
Opportunities: Abundant jobs in urban and regional areas, strong government investment, and clear PR pathways.
Victoria
Victoria offers a vibrant multicultural environment and a robust early childhood education sector. The state government has made substantial investments in early learning, supporting both job growth and career development for childcare workers.
Opportunities: High demand for educators, attractive state nomination programs for skilled migration, and excellent work-life balance.
Queensland
Queensland is known for its growing cities and family-friendly lifestyle. The state’s expanding population, especially in Brisbane and coastal areas, fuels ongoing demand for childcare workers.
Opportunities: Steady job growth, regional migration incentives, and opportunities in both metropolitan and regional centers.
Western Australia
Western Australia, centered around Perth, is experiencing renewed growth in the childcare sector due to economic development and population increases. The state offers competitive salaries and incentives for skilled workers.
Opportunities: Good prospects for employer sponsorship, regional migration options, and attractive lifestyle benefit
South Australia
South Australia, with Adelaide as its capital, has positioned itself as a leader in skilled migration programs. The state actively seeks childcare professionals and offers supportive pathways for PR, especially through state nomination.
Opportunities: Favorable migration policies, strong community support, and increasing demand in both city and regional areas.
Northern Territory (NT)
The NT offers unique opportunities for childcare workers willing to live and work in remote or regional settings. The state’s migration programs are designed to attract skilled professionals to address workforce shortages.
Opportunities: Regional incentives, close-knit communities, and strong support for skilled migrants.
| State/Territory | Key Features |
|---|---|
| New South Wales | Largest demand, major government investment, urban & regional opportunities |
| Victoria | High demand, multicultural, strong state nomination program |
| Queensland | Growing cities, regional incentives, steady job growth |
| South Australia | Favorable migration policies, city & regional demand |
| Western Australia | Economic growth, employer sponsorship, attractive lifestyle |
| Tasmania | Accessible nomination, community focus, high quality of life |
| ACT | Education focus, high job security, streamlined migration |
| Northern Territory | Regional incentives, workforce shortage, supportive communities |
Biggest employers and opportunities
The childcare sector in Australia includes both private and community-run centres. Here are some of the biggest employers and places to look for work:
- Goodstart Early Learning: Australia’s largest provider of early learning and care, with centres in every state.
- G8 Education: One of the biggest operators of childcare centres in the country.
- Affinity Education Group: A large employer that runs dozens of childcare centres nationwide.
- Local councils and government-run centres: Many local governments operate their own childcare services.
- Community and not-for-profit organisations: These include YMCA, KU Children’s Services, and smaller community centres.
These organisations regularly recruit childcare educators, assistants, and room leaders. Job postings are usually found on employment sites such as Seek, Indeed, and directly on employer websites.
Requirements to work as a childcare worker
To work in childcare in Australia, there are mandatory requirements:
Qualifications
- The minimum qualification is a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.
- Many employers prefer or require a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care for more senior roles.
- Overseas qualifications may need to be assessed and recognised by the Australian Government (through the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority, or ACECQA).
Working With Children Check
This is a background check that ensures you’re suitable to work with children. Each state has its own system, for example, NSW’s Working With Children Check or Victoria’s Working With Children Check.
First Aid and CPR
Childcare workers must have up-to-date first aid, CPR, and anaphylaxis management training.
Visa
Migrant workers must have the appropriate visa. The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) and the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) are common pathways for migrant childcare workers.
Many childcare roles are on the skilled occupation list, making them eligible for migration under these visas.
Qualities and skills of successful childcare workers
Childcare work is highly rewarding but also demanding. Employers look for the following qualities in applicants:
- Patience and understanding: Working with young children requires the ability to manage challenging behaviours with calmness and empathy.
- Communication skills: Good spoken and written English is essential, as well as the ability to communicate clearly with children, parents, and colleagues.
- Creativity and flexibility: You’ll need to adapt your activities to meet the needs and interests of each child.
- Teamwork: Childcare centres are collaborative environments, so being able to work well with others is vital.
- Reliability and professionalism: Families and employers rely on you to provide safe and nurturing care consistently.
For many Filipino and other migrant workers, these qualities align well with cultural values of caring for others and building strong relationships.
Final thoughts
Australia’s childcare sector is growing and offers excellent opportunities for migrant workers. With a supportive framework and employers that value multicultural teams, states like New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, and South Australia are great options to consider.
Whether you’re in the early stages of exploring this career path or actively looking to move, understanding the requirements and qualities expected will help you succeed.
For Filipino and other international workers, taking the first step into this fulfilling career can open doors to a secure job, a supportive community, and a chance to make a positive difference in the lives of children and families.
If you’re ready to start your journey, research your target state, connect with reputable employers, and begin your application process. With the right mindset and preparation, a successful career in childcare awaits you in Australia.