A kindergarten teacher from Victoria, a Queensland-based kindergarten, and a New South
Wales-based preschool have been announced as the winners of the 2025 HESTA Early
Childhood Education & Care Awards.
The awards recognise the front-line educators and carers at the heart of Australia’s early
childhood education system.
Larissa Hayes from Victoria received the Individual Leadership Award for her
outstanding efforts in embedding First Nations perspectives into teaching practices. Her
efforts resulted in measurable impacts, such as increased child engagement and educator
confidence.
Queensland’s C&K Ascot Community Kindergarten was awarded the Advancing
Pedagogy & Practice Award for its ‘Proud to Be Me’ initiative. The initiative fosters
inclusivity and empowers children aged from three to five to express their authentic selves,
build emotional awareness, and respect diversity.
New South Wales’ Gilgandra Preschool Incorporated won the Outstanding Service
Award for its inclusive and innovative approach to rural early education, offering fully
subsidised fees, transport initiatives, onsite therapy, and cultural programs.
HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said the night celebrated the winners and additional five finalists
who stood out among around 250 nominations Australia-wide.
“Congratulations to all winners and finalists. This year’s winners have demonstrated
extraordinary dedication to creating inclusive, supportive, and innovative environments
where children can thrive,” Ms Blakey said.
“At HESTA, we are deeply inspired by the tireless work of these incredible professionals and
their commitment to nurturing the potential of our youngest generation.”
Long-time awards sponsor ME (a subsidiary of Bank of Queensland – BOQ) provided a total
of $30,000 in prize money, to be split equally among the three winners and to be used for
professional development or to improve workplace services or processes.
BOQ Group Executive of Retail Banking Greg Boyle congratulated the winners and finalists
and thanked them for their contributions.
“ME takes great honour in applauding the meritorious winners of these awards. Their
unwavering demonstration of outstanding leadership in early education and care surpasses
expectations, providing our children with an optimal opportunity to realise their utmost
potential,” Mr Boyle said.
Shining Lights Of Australia’s Early Childhood Sector Recognised !
