HESTA Seeks Australia’s Top Early Childhood Educators

24 March 2025

The search for Australia’s best early childhood educators is now underway, with nominations officially open for the 2025 HESTA Early Childhood Education & Care Awards.

Now in its 11th year, these prestigious awards honor the dedicated educators and carers who play a vital role in shaping the nation’s early childhood education sector.

With a total prize pool of $30,000—generously contributed by long-time HESTA Awards sponsor ME (a subsidiary of Bank of Queensland – BOQ)—winners will have the opportunity to invest in personal or professional development or enhance workplace services and processes.

Nominations are open across three key categories: Advancing Pedagogy & Practice, Individual Leadership, and Outstanding Service. Anyone involved in early childhood education and care can nominate or be nominated, including educators, colleagues, employers, and community members.

HESTA CEO Debby Blakey emphasized the importance of recognizing excellence in this crucial sector.

“Nominating a deserving early childhood professional or team is a wonderful way to showcase the incredible impact they have on children and families,” Ms. Blakey said.

“Early childhood educators play an essential role in shaping young minds, and through these annual awards, we are proud to highlight their invaluable contributions.”

BOQ Group Executive of Retail Banking, Greg Boyle, expressed the bank’s strong support for the initiative.

“At ME, we are honored to celebrate the dedication and achievements of Australia’s early childhood educators. These professionals are shaping future generations, ensuring children have the best opportunities to reach their full potential,” he said.

Key Dates:

• Nominations Close: Midnight AEST, 15 June 2025

• Winners Announced: 3 October 2025 at an Awards Dinner in Perth

2024 Award Winners:

🏆 Individual Leadership Award: Katrina Hendry – KU Children’s Services, West Pymble, NSW
Recognized for her transformative impact on early childhood education, Katrina integrates her international experience in Gambia with academic expertise to foster active citizenship, sustainability, and professional growth at KU West Pymble Preschool.

🏆 Advancing Pedagogy & Practice Award: Goodstart Early Learning Tuggerah, NSW
Their innovative Interability program promotes inclusivity, social skills, and empathy by facilitating interactions between neurodiverse individuals and children—positively influencing educators, families, and the wider community.

🏆 Outstanding Service Award: C&K Walkervale Community Kindergarten, Bundaberg, QLD
Honored for their commitment to improving outcomes for First Nations children and families, the team collaborated with the Taribelang Aboriginal Corporation to create a culturally safe and inclusive learning environment.

For more information or to submit a nomination, visit HESTA’s website.