Published 29 Oct 2026
Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 Victorian Early Years Awards
The Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) would like to congratulate the winners of the 2026 Victorian Early Years Awards, which recognise outstanding achievement, leadership and innovation across Victoria's early childhood sector.
Announced on Tuesday 27 October 2026, the awards celebrate the educators, services and organisations making a significant difference to the learning, development and wellbeing of children and their families. This year marked the 21st Victorian Early Years Awards, with 26 finalists recognised for their commitment to improving outcomes for Victorian children.
The awards highlight the important role early childhood teachers and educators play in creating inclusive, high-quality learning environments where every child can thrive.
Celebrating excellence in early childhood education
This year's Early Childhood Teacher of the Year, Diah Hastuti from Dill-be-din Kindergarten, was recognised for finding creative ways to help children and families feel safe, connected and included. Through initiatives such as learning basic Arabic, introducing keyword sign language and incorporating multiple languages into the learning environment, Diah has helped improve attendance, communication and wellbeing for children and families.
Educator of the Year, Cerri May from Gowrie at The Harbour, was recognised for her commitment to inclusive education and her work supporting children with diverse strengths and needs. With more than 30 years of experience, Cerri collaborates closely with families and professionals to ensure every child experiences a sense of belonging and success. She also shares her expertise through mentoring and coaching others in the profession.
Celebrating excellence in early childhood education
Recognising leadership and innovation
The prestigious Minister's Award, selected by Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn, was presented to Julie-Anne Joyce from Coburg Children's Centre. A proud Deaf educator, Julie-Anne has championed inclusion by embedding Auslan and Deaf culture into daily learning experiences, helping children understand and value diverse ways of communicating.
Other award recipients included:
- Improving Access and Participation in Early Learning: Family Voices Matter, Foundation House (in partnership with Colman Education Foundation – Our Place (Northern Bay) and CALD Outreach, City of Greater Geelong)
- Supporting Parents to Build their Capacity and Confidence: Bringing Up Aboriginal Babies at Home program, Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency
- Creating Collaborative Community Partnerships: Road safety upgrades, Ada Mary A'Beckett Children's Centre (in partnership with Port Phillip Council)
- Promoting Children's Health and Wellbeing: Pop-Up Playgroups, Baw Baw Shire Council
- Continuity of Early Learning: Keysborough Primary Kindergarten (in partnership with Keysborough Primary School)
- The Emeritus Professor Collette Tayler Excellence in Educational Leadership Award: Debbie Roper, Gowrie Victoria
- The Aunty Rose Bamblett Koorie Early Years Legacy Award: Lake Tyers Early Learning Centre and Kindergarten.
Supporting Victoria's youngest learners
The Victorian Early Years Awards showcase the dedication, professionalism and innovation of educators and organisations across the state. Their work helps build strong foundations for lifelong learning while supporting children, families and communities to flourish.
The VIT congratulates all finalists and winners for their outstanding contribution to early childhood education and care in Victoria. Their commitment to inclusive, high-quality practice continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Victorian children and families.