Child Australia is excited to reveal the finalists for the 2026 WA Early Childhood Learning and Development (ECLD) Sector Awards. These awards honour the remarkable individuals and organisations whose commitment to quality practice is making a meaningful difference for children and families across Western Australia. Selected from a strong field of nominations, this year’s finalists represent the passion, innovation and leadership that continue to drive excellence throughout the early childhood education and care sector.
The ECLD Sector Awards shine a spotlight on the vital work happening every day in services, organisations and communities, recognising those who go above and beyond to create positive, lasting impact for young children.
“It’s an honour to reveal this year’s outstanding finalists, chosen from hundreds of inspiring nominations from across the state. Thank you to everyone who recognised excellence by submitting a nomination, because when we lift others, we all rise.” said Tina Holtom, Child Australia’s CEO
The independent judging panel faced the challenging task of selecting just 24 finalists from an exceptional pool of nominations, showcasing the remarkable talent across WA’s early childhood education and care sector. Made up of highly respected professionals from diverse fields within the Early Childhood Sector, including tertiary education and registered training organisations, the panel undertook a thorough and considered review process to determine this year’s finalists.
Winners will be announced and honoured at the exclusive awards ceremony being held on the evening of Friday, 27th March 2026 at the University Club of WA.
In addition to the honour of being recognised, each finalist will receive four tickets to the prestigious awards evening, complimentary entry to the Early Childhood Learning & Development (ECLD) Immersion Unplugged: An Interactive Professional Learning Experience, and a cash reward of $500. The winners will be awarded a total cash prize of $1,500.
The 2026 WA ECLD Sector Awards are proudly supported by the Department of Communities, and is proud to partner with sponsors REED WA, Wanslea, Goodstart, CTAS Education, The Gowrie WA, Carewest, 1Place and Australia Child Care Career Options Pty Ltd.
