We want to hear from you!The ACT Teacher Quality Institute (TQI) is seeking input on options for mandatory registration of early childhood teachers in the ACT. Since April 2024, early childhood teachers have been able to register voluntarily through the Early Childhood Teacher (ECT) Registration category. As TQI prepares to introduce mandatory registration, we are exploring whether changes are needed. This paper outlines the current registration model and proposed options for future arrangements.
Background Teacher registration helps protect children by ensuring that only suitably qualified and fit individuals can teach. It also promotes quality teaching by requiring teachers to hold recognised qualifications, undertake professional learning and demonstrate practice aligned with the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers. National reviews have highlighted the importance of teacher registration in strengthening professional recognition, supporting workforce mobility and improving consistency across jurisdictions. In response, all jurisdictions have committed to introducing registration for early childhood teachers through the National Children's Education and Care Workforce Strategy 2022-2031.
Current Situation – ECT Registration ECT registration has been available voluntarily since 1 April 2024 and since then, over 400 early childhood teachers have attained ECT registration. ECT registration restricts holders to teaching in Birth-to-Five settings. ECT registration is available to teachers with ACECQA approved early childhood qualifications. Holders with accredited Birth-8 or Birth-12 teaching qualifications can obtain provisional registration.
To read more about ECT registration and how it differs from Provisional registration and Full registration, visit the
TQI website.
