Australian childcare centers can sponsor early childhood educators from 2026 — but there's a salary hurdle

Early childhood educators have been added to the list of occupations that Australian employers can sponsor. However, most centers face one significant condition: sponsored workers must earn at least $79,423 per year plus superannuation contributions, and no less than local employees in equivalent positions.

What changed in the occupation list

Early childhood educator (childcare worker) has been added to the Core Skills Occupation List, which can be sponsored under the 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage visa) programme. For a sector that has been unable to sponsor staff through standard channels for years, this is a significant change.

At the same time, childcare center manager has been removed from the list. This means sponsorship applies to educators — childcare workers and teachers — but not administrative staff.

The challenge: salary requirements

Sponsored workers must earn a minimum of the base skilled occupation threshold — $79,423 per year plus superannuation contributions as of 2026. Simultaneously, they cannot be paid more than Australian employees in the same role.

For many educator positions, the set threshold sits above current sector salary levels. This means centers must increase pay to meet the threshold requirement while remaining aligned with Australian colleagues’ salaries.

Which positions this works for

Sponsorship is viable for roles where pay levels can meet or exceed the requirements:

• Senior educators
• Room leaders with responsibility allowances
• Early childhood teachers on teaching salary scales

For other position types in centers, the conditions may be unachievable at current sector rates. Auditing your salary structure and eligible positions becomes the first step before applying for sponsorship.

How the sponsorship process works

When the numbers align with requirements, the rest of the process is standard. The center receives sponsorship approval and can proceed with hiring. Compliance culture in the sector works in centers’ favor — documentation is typically maintained well.

The position is nominated by the center. Demonstrating genuine need is rarely an issue in a sector with published staffing ratios and officially recognized workforce shortages. Evidence of need is contained in data on group placements.

The educator applies with one year of recent work experience and the qualifications required for the role.

Priority for educators already in Australia

In 2026, visa processing prioritizes applicants already in Australia. If an educator is already working in a center on temporary arrangements, this may be the fastest realistic hiring pathway. First, check whether the person your center wants to hire is already on staff — the ideal candidate may already be in your workforce.