Community and Membership
The ANA’s aims and interests are specifically formed and adapted to meet the needs of our membership base. They are broad ranging to cover the diversity of the nanny community and to recognise each stakeholders needs and circumstances.
Membership consists of Nannies, Families, and Nanny Agencies as well as non-voting Individual and Business Supporters.
Our overall goal is to bring the nanny community together to support one another and represent the nanny sector across Australia as one community.
Information
The ANA works to inform the wider community about the role of the modern nanny in Australia. We want to increase recognition that nannies play an important role in the care of Australian children.
ANA also advocates and supports its members as needed and within its ability to do so.
Discussion
Lobbying has been a part of the ANA role since its inception in 2012. We have been engaging in talks with federal political representatives and key stakeholders in the nanny community. One of our main interests has been extending the in-home care scheme to all families. This is something we hope to pursue further, pending membership support.
ANA holds regular discussions within its own membership base and externally within the nanny community. ANA also hosts sector consultation with other peak bodies and stakeholders throughout the year.
Professional development and qualifications
The ANA would like to see Registered Training Organisations re-introduce quality accredited and recognised qualifications that are similar to the current childcare qualifications but that specifically cater to the in-home carer. Childcare centres and family homes are completely different environments and we believe nannies deserve different training streams.
We would like to see experienced nannies recognised for their prior learning and experience. We would also like to see the profession of nanny recognised through the Industry Skills Council, and potentially the development of a nanny specific award. We feel that the current Miscellaneous Award does not always meet the needs of our unique industry.
We provide information about upcoming short courses and educational sessions relevant to nannies, and we also host professional development events for our members.
Minimum standards
The Australian Nanny Association has set its own minimum standards as membership criteria for nanny and agency members. This will assist families in employing legitimate and qualified in-home care professionals, and promote the importance of quality in-home childcare.
Events
The ANA has hosted relevant and topical events tailored specifically towards nannies and nanny agencies, to help enrich the nanny community and create a fun, educational, and rewarding career boost for nannies.
We run social and networking events throughout the year, giving the nanny community opportunities to gather. Past events include Easter and Christmas picnics, National Nanny Conventions and AGMs, Safety training, and First Aid. We also facilitate Nanny Appreciation Week each year.
