Do casual educators need to be fully qualified to work in an Australian childcare service?

Yes, under Regulation 146, casual educators must hold an approved early childhood qualification or be actively working towards one with documented evidence of progress. There are no exceptions for casual or relief staff—they must meet the same qualification requirements as permanent educators.

Can casual relief educators count towards educator-to-child ratios?

Yes, entirely. Under Regulation 123, all educators on duty count towards prescribed ratios, regardless of whether they are permanent, casual, or relief. Casual staff have no special status for ratio purposes and must be factored into your rostering.

What documentation do I need before hiring a casual educator?

Before a casual educator's first shift, verify their approved qualification (copy of certificate or ACECQA register), current Working With Children Check, complete a risk assessment under Regulation 113, conduct an induction covering your policies and the National Quality Framework, and obtain signed acknowledgement of your child safe policies and mandatory reporting obligations.

How long can a relief educator work while actively working towards a qualification?

The timeframe depends on when they commenced work and their prior experience. Generally, educators can work towards a qualification for up to 12 months, though this varies under state transitional arrangements. You must have an active plan with documented progress. Refer to ACECQA guidance and your state's specific requirements to confirm exact timeframes.

Am I required to provide induction to casual educators, or is it only for permanent staff?

Induction is mandatory for all educators under the National Quality Framework, including casual and relief staff. You must document induction completion (covering policies, procedures, NQF principles, child safety, and mandatory reporting) before their first shift.

Casual and Relief Educators Compliance Requirements Under the National Quality Framework

WIDEN Law

Features Guides Blog Pricing Login Sign Up

Related WIDEN Law guides

Staffing policy and code of conduct
Educator qualifications: regulation 126
First aid requirements: regulation 136
Responsible person: section 162
Childcare ratios in Australia

Free research summaries checked against the National Regulations reprint current at 12 August 2026. All guides →

Privacy Terms Disclaimer Refund Policy

For research purposes only. Not legal advice.