QualifySA in Early Childhood Financial Support Program
South Australian residents studying Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) eligible early childhood qualifications can now access the QualifySA in Early Childhood Financial Support Program. This program aims to ease the financial burden for school leavers, career changers, current students, and educators looking to upskill. Eligible participants can receive substantial financial support through three funding streams: Teacher support, Educator support, and Aboriginal pathways.
Teacher Support:
- For South Australian residents enrolled in an approved early childhood bachelor's or master's degree, intending to work in the preschool sector.
- Bachelor degrees: Up to $25,000
- Master’s degrees: Up to $17,000 (applicants must already possess a non-early childhood degree unless otherwise approved by the Office for Early Childhood Development)
- Payments are made at significant milestones: commencement, during study, and upon entering the workforce.
Educator Support:
- For educators looking to upskill in early childhood education.
- Financial assistance varies depending on the specific qualification and the applicant's current employment status in the early childhood sector.
Aboriginal Pathways:
- Designed to support Aboriginal South Australians pursuing early childhood qualifications.
- Includes additional support services tailored to meet the needs of Aboriginal students.
Application Process:
- Eligibility Check: Ensure you meet the basic criteria: South Australian resident, studying or planning to study an eligible early childhood qualification, and an Australian or New Zealand citizen.
- Online Application: Complete the online application form, providing all required documentation.
- Assessment: Applications are reviewed, and outcomes are communicated within approximately three weeks.
- Enrolment Proof: Once enrolled, submit proof of enrolment post-Census date.
- Final Approval: Receive final approval and the contract to progress payments.
Eligible qualifications include those approved by ACECQA. To work in a family day care or centre-based service with children preschool age and under, educators must hold or be actively working towards an approved qualification. Use the ACECQA qualification checker to verify your qualification status.
For more detailed guidelines and to apply, visit https://earlychildhood.sa.gov.au/working-in-early-childhood/financial-support
