Education Minister Di Farmer has announced more than $33 million in new initiatives to support early childhood educators and strengthen the workforce.
Under the Queensland Early Childhood Workforce Strategy, the government will fund targeted qualification programs, financial support for prac placements, and professional development opportunities.
Key initiatives include:
- $29 million for the first round of the Qualifications Pathways Program (QPP) to support nearly 2,000 educators.
- Up to $2 million for a Practicum Placement Scheme (PPS) to assist early childhood teachers with cost-of-living expenses.
- Coaching and mentoring for educators upgrading their qualifications.
- $2.3 million to fund two planning days in 2024 for Long Day Care services delivering a kindergarten program.
The government will partner with nine organisations to provide scholarships covering tuition fees, practicum support, and study resources.
Minister Farmer said the investment recognised the critical role of early childhood educators in shaping children’s futures and ensuring positive long-term outcomes.
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