Casual, Fixed‑Term, or Permanent? What Early Childhood Teachers Need to Know

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It’s becoming common for early childhood services to place teaching staff on casual or fixed‑term contracts – when the role is ongoing and really should be permanent.

Since the government changed pay‑parity rules to exclude all non‑permanent teaching staff, we’re hearing from teachers that some employers are now using casual and fixed‑term contracts to avoid paying qualified and certificated teachers the pay‑parity rates they receive funding for. This can mean lost income, fewer rights, and less job protection for teachers who should legally be permanent.

It’s more important than ever to understand your rights and know what type of employment you actually have – not just what your contract says.

Log in with your member details to read the full guidance. If your membership has lapsed or you’d like to join, get in touch and we’ll help you get set up quickly.

If this is happening to you or to a colleague, it matters. You need to know your rights and be certain about the type of employment you actually have.

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Political leaders and journalists are able to use the OECE to gain deeper knowledge on a topic or issue, and we provide a sounding board for ideas and feedback.

The OECE promotes safe working environments for teachers.  We also promote the absolute need for full pay parity with school teachers for all certificated teaching staff working in teacher-led centres and in home-based, and whether permanently or casually employed. 

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