On Tuesday 28 October 2025, five USU delegates closed out the final hearing of the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into Early Childhood Education and Care.
Delegates Margaret Harrison, Cassandra Sumners, Tanya Barton, Dimitra Vassios and Brendan Eady spoke directly to Members of Parliament about the realities facing educators across council-run services. Their evidence covered everything from understaffing and low pay to the strain of juggling safety, learning, and the complex needs of children and families.
No One Else Spoke for Mobile Preschools
Importantly, the USU was the only organisation to provide details on mobile preschools; a critical service for regional and remote communities that would otherwise be left out of the Inquiry entirely.
A Strong Reaction from the Committee Chair
The panel’s impact was immediate. Committee Chair Abigail Boyd MLC (The Greens) praised the delegates openly:
“That has covered such a huge amount of information… I’ve had people texting me saying it was the best panel of the day and that they learnt more about what it’s really like on the ground dealing with staffing than ever before.”
“That was incredible. We should have had a longer time period with you.”
For many educators, this was the first time their experiences had been recognised so clearly by decision-makers.
Delegates urged Parliament to implement reforms including:
- improved educator-to-child ratios
- higher entry-level pay aligned with qualifications
- paid placements for Cert III and Diploma trainees
- enhanced funding for children with additional needs
- extended and properly compensated meal breaks
Their contribution ensures the Inquiry has real insight into what educators need to deliver safe, high-quality learning.
A Proud Moment for USU Members
Your delegates shifted the conversation, presented solutions, and made sure educators’ voices were central to the Inquiry’s final day. We’re extremely proud of them.
