Early Childhood Teacher Registration
What is changing?
From September 2026, early childhood teachers in the Northern Territory will be required to be registered with the Teacher Registration Board of the Northern Territory (TRBNT). This requirement supports child safety and promotes high professional standards.
When Does Registration Start?
Mandatory registration for early childhood teachers commences in September 2026. Early childhood teachers are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. 
Who Must Register?What You Will Need

Qualified teachers working in:

 

  • Preschools
  • Long day care
  • Early learning centres
  • Any approved early childhood service delivering education programs

 

Registration is required for teachers who deliver educational programs and hold an ACECQA-approved early childhood teaching qualification.

  • Proof of identity
  • Early childhood teaching qualification(s)
  • Final academic transcripts
  • Evidence of supervised teaching practice
  • Current working with children Card (Ochre Card)
  • National Police Check issued by SAFENT within the previous 3 months or evidence that an application has been lodged
  • Completed Form A - new applicant
  • Completed Form B -Mutual Recognition application
Registration CategoriesTransition Period
  • Full Registration - For qualified teachers who meet all registration requirements. Form A
  • Provisional Registration - For applicants who have completed an approved qualification but need to meet additional registration requirements. Form A 

 

  • If you are currently employed as an Early Childhood teacher, you must submit an application for registration prior to September 2027
  • From September 2027, early childhood teachers must be registered to teach. Teaching without registration may constitute an offence under the legislation.
English Language Proficiency

English language proficiency requirements apply where the equivalent of four years of higher education was not completed in an exempt country. Accepted evidence includes IELTS (academic), ISLPR (teachers), or evidence of approved study completed in English. Applicants applying under Mutual Recognition are exempt from English language proficiency requirements.

More info: English Proficiency | Teacher Registration Board. 

Employer Responsibilities

Early childhood services must:

  • Ensure all relevant teaching staff hold the appropriate registration in accordance with legislative requirements.
  • Notify TRB NT of employment changes
  • Support staff during the transition