| AWARD CATEGORY | WHO CAN NOMINATE |
|---|---|
| Emerging Educator | Individuals who have worked in early childhood education and care and/or outside school hours care services and programs in Australia for less than three years and consistently demonstrate exceptional behaviour and commitment to improving their skills and ensuring quality outcomes for children. |
| Outstanding Educator | Individuals who have worked in early childhood education and care and/or outside school hours care services and programs in Australia for more than three years, hold a formal qualification approved under the National Quality Framework and are committed to delivering quality practice and achieving positive outcomes for children. |
| Outstanding Leadership | Individuals who have worked in leadership roles in early childhood education and care and/or outside school hours care services and programs in Australia for more than three years, hold a formal qualification approved under the National Quality Framework, demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities and contribute to continuous quality improvements in service/program delivery. |
| Outstanding Achievement in Innovative Practice | Education and care service providers that promote and sustain a culture of innovation and continuous quality improvement. |
| Outstanding Achievement in Community Engagement | Education and care service providers that promote and sustain a culture of family and community engagement. |