Across Australia, Early Childhood Educators are at a crossroads. As part of the 2025 Federal Budget announcements, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the early childhood education sector with targeted funding to address workforce shortages and improve quality of care. This includes $72.4 million to expand professional development and training opportunities, as well as funding to improve retention and upskill educators through nationally recognised qualifications ( Australian Government Budget 2025–26 ). While these investments are a step in the right direction, many educators are still grappling with unsustainable workloads, emotional fatigue and a desire for more meaningful progression in their careers. Many in the industry are still asking the big question: Is this enough to stay? For some, it’s prompting a natural shift toward Youth Work - an area where their passion and skills can be redirected for lasting impact. Why Youth Work? Youth Work is a dynamic, people-first career that allows you to make a lasting impact in the lives of young people navigating complex challenges. It’s purpose-driven, values-led, and built around strong relationships - something Early Childhood Educators are already experts in. At Edmen Community Staffing Solutions, we’re seeing a growing number of early childhood professionals step into Youth Work. And it makes perfect sense. Your skills are more transferrable than you think If you’re an Early Childhood Educator, you already bring so much to the table: Strong behaviour management and emotional regulation strategies Communication skills with both children and families Understanding of child development and trauma-informed practice Patience, empathy, and resilience in emotionally demanding situations Documentation and compliance experience in a regulated environment These are the same core skills that make for an exceptional youth worker. What qualifications do you need? To work as a Youth Support Worker in most settings, you’ll typically need (or be working towards) a Certificate IV in Youth Work, Community Services, or a related field. If you’ve already completed a qualification in Early Childhood, you may be able to fast-track or RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) certain units. Earn while you learn: Edmen’s Kickstart Program If you're curious but unsure whether Youth Work is the right fit, our Kickstart program is designed for people just like you. Kickstart gives you the opportunity to: ✅ Gain real, paid experience in youth residential care ✅ Access mentoring and on-the-job support ✅ Begin working while you start (or complete) your qualification ✅ Connect with a community of passionate youth workers It’s a flexible, supported entry point into the sector- and a great way to test the waters while building your future career. Time for a change? If you're an Early Childhood Educator who still loves working with young people - but craves a new challenge, more meaningful impact, or a different pace - Youth Work could be the change you’ve been looking for. At Edmen, we believe in people-powered change. Let’s help you turn your passion into a new purpose. Ready to explore? Check out our open roles or learn more about Kickstart today.

Three years ago, Chereece started her journey in youth support services as a casual youth worker with Edmen Community Staffing Solutions. With little prior experience in the field, she stepped into the role as a ‘greenie,’ working with Edmen’s community service partner, Dynamic Community Care (DCC), in Queensland. Fast forward to today, and Chereece has progressed to become an Area Manager overseeing multiple residential care programs. Her story highlights how Edmen equips youth workers with the skills and experience needed to build a successful career in the youth services sector. Building a strong foundation with Edmen When Chereece first joined Edmen, she was new to youth work, but the hands-on experience she gained in residential houses equipped her with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the sector. While working with Edmen, she completed her Certificate IV in Youth Work, laying the groundwork for her career progression. “Edmen was a great option for me at the time. Casual work was very flexible, especially with young kids at home,” Chereece explains. This flexibility allowed her to balance work and family life while developing expertise in youth support. Career growth and transitioning into leadership After returning from maternity leave to have her second daughter, Chereece sought a role with more stability. When an opportunity for a Program Service Leader position at DCC arose, she applied and successfully stepped into a leadership role. Since then, she has continued her professional growth, completing a Diploma in Community Services and advancing to an Area Manager position in Ipswich. “As an Area Manager, I work closely with house managers, oversee five residential care programs and support with child safety and placements, ” she explains. The experience she gained at Edmen provided her with a solid foundation to transition into leadership, shaping her into the manager she aspired to be. “ My time at Edmen really helped mould me into the leader I wanted to be. It’s where I found my passion and drive for the work I do. ” The impact of Edmen’s support and supervision Chereece credits Edmen’s supervision and support network for helping her develop confidence and competence in youth work. “ Even though I was fairly new to the industry, working with Edmen provided me with the support and ‘village’ you need in this line of work ,” she shares. “ Supervision sessions were also beneficial in ensuring I felt confident while on the job .” She continues to maintain strong relationships with the Edmen team, recognising the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving the best outcomes for young people. Lessons learned and advice for aspiring Youth Workers Reflecting on her journey, Chereece acknowledges that starting as a youth worker can be daunting, but the right support makes all the difference. “ When you start off as a Youth Worker, it’s hard to know what to expect. There are lots of unknowns, but Edmen provides a space where you feel supported and always have the backing of a team. ” For those considering a career in youth work, Chereece offers this advice: Do it for the right reasons. “ The best Youth Workers are the ones with a genuine passion for the work .” Prioritise self-care. “ This job can be intense and looking after yourself is key to staying in the industry long-term. ” Celebrate small wins. “ Recognising progress, no matter how small, helps get through the tough days. ” Seek support. “ Even the most brilliant Youth Workers need a strong support system to succeed. ” Looking to the future With her next milestone on the horizon- welcoming a new baby later this year - Chereece remains committed to the youth services sector. While she enjoys her current role, the next future growth opportunity would be potentially stepping into an Operations Manager role down the track. For now, she’s content knowing she is making a difference. “ I love my current role because I’m still close to the floor, working directly with young people. I think being an Area Manager really suits me.” A career pathway with Edmen Chereece’s journey is an example of how Edmen provides opportunities for growth, from entry-level roles to leadership positions with our community service partners. With the right support, training, and hands-on experience, a career in youth services can be both rewarding and full of progression. If you’re considering a career in youth support services, Edmen offers the flexibility and support to help you thrive - just like Chereece. Ready to get started? Check out our open Youth Worker roles today.