About ELACCA
Established in 2014, the Early Learning and Care Council of Australia (ELACCA) works to promote the value of quality early learning and care for young children and their families.
Our 17 CEO members include some of the largest early learning providers in the country, representing both not-for-profit and for-profit services.
ELACCA members operate 2,002 long day care services, 304 preschool/kindergarten services and 77 OSHC services, covering every state and territory. They offer one-quarter of all the long day care places in Australia.
Together, our members serve 359,324 children and their families, and employ more than 58,738 staff.
CEO - Dr amanda Walsh
Amanda began her career as a diplomat, before moving into policy and advisory roles. When her children were very young, she became a freelance writer. One article she wrote a for parenting magazine – on the new National Quality Framework – sparked an enduring interest in early childhood education. She entered the early years sector in 2013, and has since worked for organisations including Early Childhood Australia and Playgroup Australia, where she served as CEO.
Amanda has a long association with the Early Learning and Care Council of Australia (ELACCA), working in policy, projects and partnerships roles. She was appointed CEO of ELACCA in June 2026.
Amanda has a PhD in political economy and political science, and has written for a range of publications, including The Conversation and Inside Story. She is the author of Globalisation, the state and regional Australia (Sydney University Press, 2018).
OUR MEMBERS
