Building the future: workforce planning panel to explore one of ECEC’s most critical challenges – sustainable workforce planning

As momentum builds for the second edition of the The Sector Connect + ECEC Workforce and Wellbeing Forum, to be held in Melbourne on Friday, 5 June 2026, continues to build, the team at The Sector is thrilled to confirm the lineup of the “Building the Future: Sustainable Workforce Planning for our Sector” panel which will convene to discuss the important question of how to build a strong and resilient workforce in the current ECEC landscape.

“The importance of having the right people, in the right roles has always been of primary importance for early learning centre owners and leaders across the country,” The founder of The Sector, Jason Roberts said. 

“What makes this even more critical in this particular moment is that we are at a moment in tremendous change across our sector and that can make identifying and retaining high quality team members a bit more difficult."

“I am thrilled that we have been able to bring together such a diverse and talented group of workforce specialists that will undeniably set the scene for a must hear panel that is sure to add real value for all who attend.”

Collective experience of panelists creates perfect backdrop for insightful discussions 

This year's workforce panel will be hosted by Jason Roberts, who will be joined on stage to discuss the many facets of this important subject by four senior leaders representing diverse view points from across the ECEC sector including academia and service delivery. 

“The Sector Connect+ team have always worked hard to ensure that panels include a broad range of perspectives that enable the moderator to thoroughly examine the key topics to be discussed,” Mr Roberts said. 

Professor Susan Irvine, Queensland University of Technology (QUT)
Amaresh Devansesen, Executive Director - Y Careers
Lynda Salvo, CEO Explorers Early Learning 

Amanda Hughes, Director of People Early Childhood Management Services (ECMS) 

“The experts assembled for the “Building the Future: The challenges of sustainable workforce planning” panel will allow for exactly that. We are thrilled to welcome Susan, Amaresh, Lynda and Amanda to the Forum,” Mr Roberts added. 

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Workforce planning must move beyond short-term staffing fixes

As early learning gains recognition as essential social and economic infrastructure, sustainable workforce planning has never been more critical. 

This panel discussion explores how the sector  can move beyond short-term staffing fixes and take a long-term, systems-based approach to strengthening the workforce, one that aligns with sector reforms and the growing recognition of Early Childhood Education and Care as foundational to thriving communities.

Framed around the idea of workforce planning as long-term building, the conversation will examine practical and strategic solutions to ensure the ECEC services  are equipped to meet future demand while maintaining quality and stability.

The panel discussion points will include:

• Creating strong school-to-qualification pathways that attract, prepare, and transition new entrants into meaningful, supported careers in ECEC.

• Exploring career progression, professional recognition, workplace culture, wellbeing supports, and flexible employment models that keep educators engaged for the long term.

• Addressing unique geographic challenges through innovative training delivery, community partnerships, and place-based workforce strategies.

• Building the next generation of leaders through mentoring, capability development, and structured pathways into management and governance roles.

• Strengthening data, collaboration, and policy alignment to ensure workforce growth keeps pace with service expansion and community needs.

Designed for sector leaders, policymakers, service providers, and educators, this session will offer practical insights, strategic perspectives, and forward-thinking solutions to build a resilient, sustainable workforce for the future.

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ECEC Workforce and Wellbeing Forum, an opportunity to engage with sector leaders 

The ECEC Workforce and Wellbeing Forum, an innovative new event launched as part of the Connect+ series by The Sector, aims to offer ECEC organisations and their representatives the opportunity to engage with leading subject matter experts and proven, high-profile ECEC leaders via carefully curated, moderator-led panel discussions combined with extended delegate-led Q&A.

“Building the Future: The challenges of sustainable workforce planning” will address some of the key questions facing leaders as they consider how to build workforce cultures that support wellbeing, retention and long-term sustainability.

“Our mission at The Sector has always been to equip the ECEC sector with the knowledge and tools to thrive ensuring that everyone in the sector is sufficiently informed, supported and empowered to navigate their day-to-day roles and responsibilities,” Mr Roberts said. 

“This panel, and the event as a whole, will do just that. We look forward to welcoming all of the delegates on 5 June 2026 and hosting a memorable event that will become a key part of the annual events calendar.”

Only one week left to secure your spot with our early bird registration discount - don’t miss out!

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To find out more about the ECEC Workforce and Wellbeing Forum, click here or contact Anna Boshell at anna@thesector.com.au or 0403 526 246.