Australia’s job market recorded a 0.7% increase in online job ads last month (seasonally adjusted). Advertisements increased across most major occupation groups, with Machinery Operators and Drivers and Community and Personal Service Workers seeing the strongest increase. The Australian Capital Territory experienced the strongest increase in job ads.
Job ad numbers decreased compared with the same time last year. While capital cities continued to record declines, regional Australia saw an increase over the year.
At the centre of early education: exploring demand for Child Care Centre Managers
Demand for Child Care Centre Managers has grown strongly, with online job advertisements in June 2026 nearly double their 2019 levels. Employment is expected to continue increasing as the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sector expands and services become more complex.
While shortages are less widespread than for other ECEC occupations, the sector relies heavily on internal progression, with many managers moving up from educator roles. Ongoing challenges include workload pressures, regulatory demands and leadership retention, making strong career pathways essential to meeting future demand.
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If you have any questions, please email JSA-Nowcasting@jobsandskills.gov.au.
