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How to Become a Nanny: Australian Careers in Early Childhood Education

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What is a Nanny?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Nanny?

A nanny cares for children in their family’s home, typically on a full-time or part-time basis. The role goes beyond basic supervision. Nannies support a child’s development through structured play, learning activities and consistent daily routines.

Day-to-day tasks include preparing meals, running hygiene routines, managing behaviour and transporting children to school or activities. Nannies also plan and lead age-appropriate games, crafts and educational projects. No two days look the same, which suits people who enjoy variety and working directly with children.

Most families look for nannies who hold a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121). A valid Working with Children Check is also required. First aid certification is standard. These qualifications show families that a nanny has the knowledge and screening to care for their children safely.

Around 7,100 nannies work in Australia, with 78% in part-time roles (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The role suits people who are patient, creative and committed to making a positive difference in children’s lives. It can also be a stepping stone into formal early childhood education careers.

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Career snapshots For Nannys

About 7,100 nannies work in Australia (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The workforce is mostly female at 98%, with a median age of 27. Most nannies work part-time: 78% hold part-time roles, while 22% work full-time. Full-time nannies average 42 hours per week.

Salaries range from around $55,000 to $105,000 per year. The average falls between $65,000 and $85,000 (SEEK, June 2026). Pay rises with experience, formal training and the number of children cared for. Live-in roles may also include benefits such as free accommodation.

What will I do?

A nanny helps families by providing daily care and supervision for children in the home. The work is varied and changes as children grow. Strong child development knowledge and calm, consistent behaviour help nannies do their job well.

  • Prepare educational and recreational materials – sets up activities that support children’s learning and play at each stage of development.
  • Manage behaviour – guides children’s social skills and helps them learn how to respond to others.
  • Run activities – plans and leads games, crafts and learning tasks suited to each child’s age and interests.
  • Entertain children – reads stories, plays games and keeps children engaged and happy throughout the day.
  • Supervise play – watches over children during active play and outdoor time to keep them safe.
  • Maintain daily routines – oversees mealtimes, nap times and bedtime routines to give children structure.
  • Support hygiene – helps children with washing, dressing and personal care to build good daily habits.

What skills do I need?

A good nanny needs strong communication skills to work well with both children and parents. Clear, regular updates help families feel confident that their child is in safe hands. Active listening and empathy are just as important. Nannies need to tune in to how a child is feeling.

Practical skills matter too. Nannies need to plan and run age-appropriate activities, prepare nutritious meals and maintain safe hygiene routines. A background in child development helps nannies spot key milestones and respond well to challenging behaviour. First aid knowledge, including CPR, rounds out the core skill set.

Skills/attributes

  • Child development knowledge
  • Communication and active listening
  • Patience and empathy
  • Behaviour management
  • Creativity in planning activities
  • Organisational skills
  • First aid and CPR certification
  • Meal preparation and nutrition basics
  • Time management
  • Flexibility and adaptability
  • Safe transport of children
  • Light housekeeping
  • Building trusting relationships with families
  • Hygiene supervision
  • Problem-solving

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.