Assistant Centre Manager, working towards diploma, over 50% completion wage and pay level of an 90 place ECEC service

Hi block blast,

Congratulations on the new role! In Australia, wages in Early Childhood Education and Care are generally set under the Children’s Services Award 2010 (unless the service is covered by an enterprise agreement).

As an Assistant Centre Manager with a completed Cert III and being 50% through your Diploma, your pay level is usually based on a Diploma-qualified classification or a supervisory/assistant management level, depending on your responsibilities (staff supervision, compliance support, admin duties, etc.).

I’d recommend checking the service’s Enterprise Agreement (if they have one) or confirming which award level they are offering before signing the contract, just to make sure it aligns with your role and qualifications.

Hope that helps, and best of luck in your new position!

Congrats on the new role! For your position (Assistant Centre Manager with Cert III + 50% Diploma completion in a 90-place service), check the Children's Services Award 2010 Level 4.1 or 4.2 (Diploma-progress rates). Typical range: $28–$32/hr depending on responsibilities. Confirm if the service follows the Award or has an Enterprise Agreement. Always verify the exact classification before signing.

Here are the updated wages from 01 March 2026:

Childcare Wages

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Lorina