As hundreds of early childhood educators flooded Martin Place last week, waving banners and chanting for fair pay, staff at Kiama and Jamberoo preschools were rallying from home turf.

Their reason for skipping the march? To keep their doors open for local families.

Instead, they launched their own “mini movement” to support the Start Strong, Pay Fair campaign - asking families to dress children in pink, sign petitions and email MPs in support of better pay for preschool educators.

Since mid 2024, the Independent Education Union of Australia (NSW/ACT) branch) has been bargaining with the NSW Government for funding reform. Their plea is simple: equal pay for equal work.

Right now, community preschool educators earn around 30 per cent less than those in schools, despite holding the same qualifications - and 15 per cent less than staff in long day care.

The result? A “workforce exodus,” says the Union.

Across Kiama and Jamberoo, long-serving educators are leaving for better-paying jobs - or leaving the sector altogether.

The timing couldn’t be worse. Following the childcare abuse scandal in Melbourne and a spike in demand for trusted care, local preschools are stretched thin.

In a “childcare desert” like the Kiama local government area, every educator counts.

The NSW Government has promised $100 million to help community preschools extend their hours - most open six hours a day and close during school holidays - but the Union fears this will only add pressure without a pay rise to match.

Dr Amanda Lloyd, educational consultant and president of the Kiama Preschool Parent Committee, says the issue runs deeper than wages.

“Community preschools connect children, families and place, fostering belonging, confidence and a love of learning,” she says.

When staff turnover is high, it’s the kids who lose out.

Kiama Preschool - opened over 50 years ago thanks to local donations - has long prided itself on stability. Some educators have guided generations of local families.

But for younger educators, a “job for life” is a luxury few can afford - even in a place they adore.

Local parents told The Bugle they support the pay rise.

“There’s nowhere like it,” said a mother whose daughter attends Kiama preschool. “When I drop my daughter off, I never have to worry. It’s community at its best - and that’s priceless.”