HESTA Early Childhood Education & Care Awards

The HESTA Early Childhood Education & Care Awards recognise the front-line educators and carers at the very heart of Australia's early childhood education system.

2021 winners

A story worth celebrating

These awards celebrate educators and carers at the very heart of Australia’s early childhood education system.

Nominations now closed

2021 Awards presentation

Winners were announced via live broadcast, hosted by Jimmy Rees on Tuesday 7 September.

Read their stories

Prizes

Winners share a $30,000 prize pool, courtesy of proud Awards supporter ME- the bank for you.

Terms and conditions

key dates

Nominations closed: 10 July 2022

Finalists announced: 6 September 2022

Winners announced: Friday 7 October 2022

2021 Award winners

We announced our winners on Tuesday 7 September 2021.

Read about the 2021 winners

award categories

Advancing Pedagogy & Practice

This award recognises early childhood educators that have significantly advanced early childhood education and care through demonstrating innovation and enhanced outcomes for young children.

Eligibility criteria

Individual Leadership

This award recognises an individual who has delivered high quality education to young children in Australia, making a valued contribution to their profession.

Eligibility criteria

Outstanding Organisation

Recognises early childhood services that have implemented strategies to improve access and participation for children and families that may otherwise face barriers to accessing early childhood education.

Eligibility criteria

Recognition

Every person or organisation nominated will receive a certificate in recognition of their contributions.

Terms and conditions

Acknowledgement

Finalists each receive two tickets to attend the Awards dinner.

Terms and conditions

Reward

Overall winners share a $30,000 prize pool, courtesy of proud Awards supporters ME- the bank for you.

Terms and conditions

2021 HESTA Early Childhood Education & Care Awards

The HESTA Early Childhood Education & Care winners and finalists epitomise outstanding standards of care and the highest levels of commitment to teaching and care-giving professions.

2021 winners

Advancing Pedagogy & Practice

Lilyfield Early Learning Centre were recognised for their community focused learning approach that empowers children to have a voice and choice, particularly through an innovative junior Parliament.

Read their story

Individual Leadership

Karen Roberts has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to early childhood education, continually going above and beyond to be a champion for children.

Read Karen's story