The Importance of Early Childhood Care and Education in Australia

Research shows that 90% of brain development occurs before the age of five. This is when children develop the building blocks for language, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and social skills. High-quality early learning helps children become curious, resilient, and ready to succeed at school.

The Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) 2024 highlights both opportunities and challenges:

• 52.9% of children were “on track” across all five developmental domains.
• This is a decline from 54.8% in 2021, suggesting increasing vulnerabilities in early development.
• Areas like language and social skills are especially influenced by access to quality early education

As a future educator, this shows just how much of a difference you can make by helping children build strong foundations during these critical years.

By working in early childhood education, you will be supporting children in ways that have lifelong benefits:

• School readiness: Children who attend preschool or early learning programs are better prepared for the transition to school.
• Social and emotional skills: Early education supports cooperation, empathy, and conflict resolution.
• Long-term outcomes: Children who access quality early learning are more likely to complete school, pursue higher education, and contribute positively to society.

Early childhood education and care does not only benefit children, it supports families and the wider economy too:

• Workforce participation: Affordable childcare helps more parents, especially mothers, return to work or study.
• Economic benefits: Every dollar invested in early learning delivers long-term savings by reducing costs in health, welfare, and social services.

Equity and inclusion: High-quality programs help close the gap for children who might otherwise start school behind, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported in 2024 that:

• 341,568 children aged 4-5 years were enrolled in a preschool program, a 1.3% increase from 2023.
• After subsidies, 78% of children enrolled in preschool programs paid $4 or less per hour.
• Enrolment among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children rose by 2.2%, showing progress in accessibility, though challenges remain.

This growth means there is a constant demand for skilled educators to provide quality care and learning.

The Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) results show there is still work to be done to support all children in Australia. More qualified educators are needed to:

• Improve access to quality services, especially in regional and remote areas
• Support children with additional needs or from diverse cultural backgrounds
• Ensure every child has the best start in life

That is where you come in. As a student or new graduate, you will be entering a sector where your skills are valued, and your work makes a direct impact on children and families.

At Kirana Colleges, we offer accredited courses including the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, the CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, and the CHC30121 / CHC 50121 Double Certificate III and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.  

These are Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) approved, nationally recognised qualifications that meet the minimum training requirements to work in the early childhood education and care sector across Australia.

• The Certificate III provides the foundational skills to begin your career in early childhood settings.
• The Diploma prepares you for leadership roles and advanced responsibilities.
• The Double Qualification is a smart pathway that allows you to complete both the Certificate III and Diploma together, helping you save time, broaden your career opportunities, and enter the workforce with highly sought-after skills.

All of our courses are designed to give you the practical skills and confidence to:

• Create safe and engaging learning environments
• Support children’s development in line with national standards
• Build a rewarding career in childcare centres, preschools, and community programs

The importance of early childhood care and education cannot be overstated. It gives children the foundations for lifelong success, supports families, and strengthens communities. For you, it also opens the door to a meaningful career where you can make a lasting impact.

By studying with Kirana Colleges, you will gain the qualifications and experience to step into this vital profession and help shape the future of Australia’s youngest learners. Contact a Course and Career Advisor today to find out about our online courses.