Question 1

What does a nursery assistant do in Australia?

Accepted Answer

A nursery assistant provides nurturing care for babies and toddlers aged 0-2 years in childcare settings. They handle bottle feeding, nappy changes, sleep routines, and help age-appropriate sensory activities. Under the Children's Services Award 2010 (MA000120), nursery assistants are typically classified at Level 2-3 depending on their qualifications and experience.

Question 2

What award covers nursery assistants in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Nursery assistants are covered by the Children's Services Award 2010 (MA000120). This award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates and conditions for employees working in children's services. Always verify which award applies to your specific childcare business.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a nursery assistant?

Accepted Answer

Under the Children's Services Award 2010, nursery assistants typically start at Level 2 (if they have Certificate III in Early Childhood Education) or Level 3 (with additional qualifications or experience). Level 1 applies to trainees and entry-level staff without qualifications. See our Children's Services Award rates guide for current classifications.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a nursery assistant job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive rates based on experience.' Check the Children's Services Award 2010 for current rates.

Question 5

What qualifications do nursery assistants need in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Nursery assistants typically require a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (or equivalent). All staff working with children must hold a valid Working with Children Check and National Police Check. First Aid certification including CPR and asthma/anaphylaxis management is also required.

Question 6

Do nursery assistants need a Working with Children Check?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all staff working in childcare must hold a valid Working with Children Check (or equivalent screening in their state). This is a mandatory requirement under the National Quality Framework. Staff cannot commence work until their Working with Children Check is approved.

Question 7

What First Aid certification is required for nursery assistants?

Accepted Answer

Nursery assistants must hold current First Aid certification including CPR, asthma management and anaphylaxis management. These certifications must be renewed every 3 years (First Aid and CPR) and annually (asthma and anaphylaxis). At least one staff member with these qualifications must be on duty at all times.

Question 8

Is safe sleep training required for nursery assistants?

Accepted Answer

While not legally mandated in all states, safe sleep training is highly recommended and often required by childcare centres working with infants. This training covers safe sleep practices to reduce the risk of SIDS and ensures compliance with Red Nose Australia guidelines and National Quality Framework requirements.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent nursery assistants?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your centre's enrollment patterns and staffing needs. Permanent staff provide consistency and continuity of care for infants, while casuals offer flexibility for staff absences and fluctuating ratios. Many centres use a mix of both. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends and simplify employee management with HR software.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to nursery assistants?

Accepted Answer

Penalty rates under the Children's Services Award 2010 apply for work performed on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and evening shifts. Childcare centres operating extended hours may frequently pay penalty rates. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for nursery assistants?

Accepted Answer

Under the Children's Services Award 2010, minimum engagement periods apply — typically 3 hours for part-time and casual employees. However, actual shift lengths vary based on centre operating hours and ratio requirements. Many nursery assistants work 8-10 hour shifts to provide consistency for infants.

Question 12

What should I include in a nursery assistant employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties, ratio requirements, shift patterns and hours, room allocation, qualifications required, and Working with Children Check verification. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to nursery assistants?

Accepted Answer

Under the Children's Services Award 2010, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance for part-time employees. Changes within this period require employee agreement. For casual employees, reasonable notice should be provided. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives staff visibility of their upcoming shifts.

Question 14

How do I manage staff ratios for nursery rooms?

Accepted Answer

Nursery rooms (0-2 years) typically require a 1:4 ratio (one educator to four children) under the National Quality Framework. Your rostering must ensure this ratio is maintained at all times, accounting for breaks, non-contact time, and staff absences. Factor in additional staff during peak drop-off and pick-up times.

Question 15

What breaks are nursery assistants entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Children's Services Award 2010, employees are entitled to breaks based on their shift length. Paid rest breaks and unpaid meal breaks apply. Because ratio requirements must be maintained, break arrangements need careful coordination. Use break planning tools to manage breaks while maintaining ratios.

Question 16

How do I schedule nursery assistants efficiently?

Accepted Answer

Schedule based on enrollment numbers and ratio requirements (typically 1:4 for infants), consider staff qualifications and experience levels when pairing educators, and ensure experienced staff work during peak times. Account for non-contact time and breaks while maintaining ratios. Use rostering software to improve schedules and support compliance.

Nursery assistant job description