How to become a child carer
Look after and care for children in residential households and childcare centres.
Pathways to this career
- Study either an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in education, majoring in Early Childhood Education. While a Certificate 3 makes for a fast entry into the world of childcare, tertiary qualifications can increase your earning potential.
- A Working with Children check/license is mandatory in every Australian state. Consider completing a comprehensive First Aid certificate to increase your chances of employment.
- Look into the The Australian Children's Education and Quality Care Authority (ACECQA) for support, education and networking events to qualified child carers across Australia.
What does a child carer do?
Duties and tasks
- Assist children with personal care activities such as hygiene, bathing and dressing, and mobility
- Cook and prepare meals, snacks and beverages for children according to centre specifications or parents requests
- Engage children in a variety of stimulating activities to promote their development such as musical activities, outdoor games, reading, basic educational programs, etc.
- Manage and correct children's behavior and implement appropriate disciplinary actions
- Plan or determine daily routine for children set out by parents, caretakers or day care centres and guide children in routine activities
- Prepare materials and pack items needed for educational programs and social and outdoor activities
- Supervise children while partaking in outdoors play, games and activities and ensure safety at all times
Industry bodies
- Australian Institute of Welfare and Community Workers
- Australian Youth Affairs Coalition
- Carers Australia
Related jobs
- Child care worker
- Counsellor
- Developmental care worker
- Education aide
- Social worker
- Therapy aide
- Welfare worker
- Youth worker
Discover related courses
Undergraduate UNE-CWW-DIP
Undergraduate TAS-DMT-DEG
Available majors
- Ageing Studies and Services Major
Postgraduate GRF-DBS-GCE
Postgraduate GRF-SWK-MAS
Step up your career with these resources
10 fascinating uni subjects that are open to everyone in 2025
Want to understand the psychology behind Trumpism? Push for better climate action? Or improve your cultural sensitivity in healthcare? These online subjects—and more!—are now accepting 2025 enrolments.
5 small business courses for self-starters
Whether you’re a small business owner or plotting away at a side hustle, there are many online business courses to choose from to help you get in touch with your entrepreneurial side and launch your ideas off the ground.
How to negotiate a higher salary
Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.
Is a career in project management right for you?
Do you get a kick out of thinking big and getting things done? You could make a great project manager.
Together, we've got this
Your dedicated advisor will help you enrol, plan your studies and find confidence in the knowledge that you belong at university. They’ve helped thousands before you. Now it’s your turn.