Results of ELAA's Term 1 2024 Pulse Check survey 

Thank you to all ELAA members who completed the first Pulse Check survey of the year! These surveys are a great tool in helping our advocacy team track progress, set goals, and identify themes frequently brought up by members. The Term 1 2024 Pulse Check survey received 97 responses which reflected a breadth of concerns as well as positive developments.  

As ELAA has embarked on its journey of reconciliation - we asked members if they have completed their own Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). 54% of respondents have completed or are in the process of completing a RAP and 75% of those who haven’t, intended to complete developing their RAP within the next 24 months. 

‘Inclusion support/responding to children with additional needs’ is an issue flagged by 54% of respondents as being of great concern. The next highest ranked issues as indicated by the survey were: 

• pay conditions of the workforce (43%) 
• staffing shortages (36%) 
• responding to high levels of vulnerable children and families (30%) 
• financial viability (28%). 

Members were asked if any barriers have emerged since the ELAA workforce survey in late 2023. Many respondents stated that while they have no trouble finding ECEC teachers and Certificate III educators, the main challenge of many staff shortages is filling vacancies for Diploma qualified educators. Of 231 total vacancies since October 2023, 40% of respondents report at least one vacancy remaining unfilled, keeping in mind that teaching roles only account for 61% of these vacancies. 

We concluded the survey by asking if there was anything you would like ELAA to focus on moving into term 2. Some of the topics were: 

• modelling regarding preparation for Best Start, Best Life (BSBL) reforms and 30 hours pre-prep rollout 
• work culture and wellbeing 
• ensuring long-term viability of services 
• VECTEA 2024 Training and Updates.  

We thank you for your ongoing contributions and look forward to continuing our advocacy in Term 2. Our Pulse Checks surveys are sent out at the end of every term to all ELAA members, and your input is always appreciated.