This year, the Department of Education’s Victorian Early Years Awards (VEYA) are celebrating 20 years of recognising the outstanding work of early years professionals to improve the health, learning, development and wellbeing of Victorian children and their families.

Nominate yourself, a colleague, an early childhood professional, a service or an organisation that has demonstrated leadership, outstanding achievement, or innovation. 

Eligible organisations include early childhood services, local government services, community organisations, health services, disability services, and more.

The 9 award categories are:

• – Improving Access and Participation in Early Learning
• – Supporting Parents to Build Their Capacity and Confidence
• – Creating Collaboration Community Partnerships
• – Promoting Children’s Health and Wellbeing
• – Continuity of Early Learning
• – The Aunty Rose Bamblett Koorie Early Years Legacy Award
• – Emeritus Professor Collette Tayler Excellence in Educational Leadership Award
• – Early Childhood Teacher of the Year
• – Early Childhood Educator of the Year

Winners of each category will receive a grant of $15,000 for professional development or to support their early years initiative. The finalists in each category are also eligible to win the prestigious Minister’s Award, selected by the Minister for Children.

Nominations close 5 pm, Thursday 12 June 2025. Visit vic.gov.au/victorian-early-years-awards to nominate now.

Nomination Writing Support

There are supports available to help you write the best possible nomination. Supports include:

• Tips and tricks on how to write a great nomination and feedback on your draft nomination available until Monday 9 June 2025.

Learn more at vic.gov.au/victorian-early-years-awards-nomination-guide#free-nomination-writing-assistance.

Questions about nominations?

Email the Victorian Early Years Awards team at early.years.awards@education.vic.gov.au.