On 7 September Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison joined early childhood educators from across the Charlestown electorate and beyond in a rally as part of industrial action they were taking for better wages and to raise public awareness of the need for proper recognition of their skills and their importance.

"It is hard to overstate how important early childhood educators are to our community," Ms Harrison said.  "They are skilled, trained workers who help our children get the best start in life.

"These workers tirelessly strive to deliver that, but they are burnt out, they are overworked and they are paid less than what they could earn packing shelves in retail.

"It is always inspiring to see workers standing up for their rights. I thank those members of the United Workers Union who organised the event, and Hunter Workers, who assisted. It was my honour to stand in solidarity with them and with the early childhood educators for whom I hold so much respect."