How much does a Childcare Worker earn in Australia?

The average childcare worker salary in Australia is about $67,000 per year. Entry-level roles typically start around $55,000, mid-career sits near $68,000, and senior positions reach $85,000. The full range across the country runs from roughly $52,000 to $100,000.

How much do childcare workers earn in Perth and WA?

National ratio requirements mean staffing is legally mandated rather than discretionary, and WA centres report persistent difficulty filling Diploma-qualified and teacher roles.

What qualifications do you need to be a childcare worker?

A Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care as a minimum, plus a Working with Children Check. A Diploma is required for room leader roles.

Is childcare worker a good career in Australia?

Demand is currently rated very high with strong growth expected. National ratio requirements mean staffing is legally mandated rather than discretionary, and WA centres report persistent difficulty filling Diploma-qualified and teacher roles.

Childcare Worker Salary in Australia

Comprehensive salary information for Childcare Worker positions in Australia, Western Australia

Average Childcare Worker Salary

$67,000 / year

Salary Range: $52,000 - $100,000

Industry: Education

Market Demand: Very High

Growth Rate: Strong growth

Remote Work: Not typically available

Salary by Experience Level

Experience Level	Salary Range
Entry Level (0-2 years)	$55,000
Mid Level (3-5 years)	$68,000
Senior Level (6+ years)	$85,000

Skills That Increase Your Childcare Worker Salary

The following skills are highly valued and can significantly impact your earning potential:

Early years programming
Behaviour guidance
Observation and documentation
Family communication

Valuable Certifications

These certifications can help you command a higher salary:

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
Working with Children Check
First Aid including asthma and anaphylaxis

How to Increase Your Childcare Worker Salary

Gain relevant certifications and qualifications
Develop in-demand skills (see list above)
Gain more years of experience in the field
Consider specializing in high-demand areas
Negotiate effectively during job offers
Stay updated with industry trends and technologies

Current Childcare Worker Jobs in Australia

Showing 10 current Childcare Worker opportunities:

Program Worker FCS

Social Futures 📍 Karangi, Coffs Harbour Part-time, Permanent

Salary: $46.70 - $46.70 Job Type: Contract Location: Grafton Job Category: Community Services & Development An exciting, new opportunity has become available in Family Connect and Support for a Progra...

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Psychologist

Paediatric Play 📍 Adelaide CBD, Adelaide Part-time, Permanent

We’re Hiring: Paediatric Psychologist! Part-Time Paediatric Play is growing, and we’re looking for a passionate, child-centred Psychologist to join our supportive multidisciplinary allied health ser...

Apply Now →

Children’s Services Employee - Part time

Gowrie South Australia 📍 Adelaide CBD, Adelaide Part-time, Permanent

Gowrie SA is seeking an experienced Diploma qualified Team Leader to fulfil a full-time position in the infant and toddler program at Thebarton. The position commences June/July 2026. Are you passiona...

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Cook (Children's Support Worker) Part time

Gowrie South Australia 📍 Adelaide CBD, Adelaide Part-time, Permanent

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Childcare Worker

Kindy Zone 📍 Manoora, Cairns Part-time, Permanent

Kindy Zone is looking for 5 enthusiastic and passionate Childcare workers fulltime to join our amazing team Qualifications Required. Currently be studying or hold a cert 111 or have a diploma in Early...

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Cert III or Diploma Room Leader | $38ph-$48ph

Earlyhood Recruitment 📍 Queensland, Australia Full-time

Exceeding Service Choose your shifts (full time) Choose your room Are you an passionate and experienced Early Childhood Educator, looking to join an Exceeding Centre with likeminded professionals? - I...

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Certificate III Educator

Tall Tree Early Learning 📍 Heathridge, Joondalup Area Part-time, Permanent

Cert III Educator – Tall Tree Early Learning Landsdale At Tall Tree Early Learning Landsdale, our community is growing, and with that growth comes a wonderful opportunity for a passionate Cert III or ...

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Certificate III Educator

Tall Tree Early Learning 📍 Perth CBD, Perth Full-time, Permanent

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Cert III or Diploma Room Leader | $38ph-$48ph

Earlyhood Education and Care 📍 Australia 💰 $0k - $0k Full-time, Permanent

Are you an passionate and experienced Early Childhood Educator, looking to join an Exceeding Centre with likeminded professionals? - If yes, we have the perfect role for you! Earlyhood Recruitment are...

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Childcare Workers, Educators, Teachers, Cooks, Trainees & Managers

Private Advertiser 📍 Perth CBD, Perth Part-time, Permanent

Want to be part of a friendly and professional team? Child Care Workers, Educators, Teachers, Cooks, Trainees & Managers Full-Time, Part-Time & Casual. Current & future opportunities. Karrinyup Early ...

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View All Childcare Worker Jobs →

Related Education Salaries

Frequently Asked Questions About Childcare Worker Salaries

How much does a Childcare Worker earn in Australia?: The average childcare worker salary in Australia is about $67,000 per year. Entry-level roles typically start around $55,000, mid-career sits near $68,000, and senior positions reach $85,000. The full range across the country runs from roughly $52,000 to $100,000.
How much do childcare workers earn in Perth and WA?: National ratio requirements mean staffing is legally mandated rather than discretionary, and WA centres report persistent difficulty filling Diploma-qualified and teacher roles.
What qualifications do you need to be a childcare worker?: A Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care as a minimum, plus a Working with Children Check. A Diploma is required for room leader roles.
Is childcare worker a good career in Australia?: Demand is currently rated very high with strong growth expected. National ratio requirements mean staffing is legally mandated rather than discretionary, and WA centres report persistent difficulty filling Diploma-qualified and teacher roles.