Mrs Thomas, who is registered with Intereach Family Day Care, received the honour for her commitment to delivering high-quality early childhood education and care and the important contribution they make to children, families and their local community.
She won the same award in 2024, and was then selected as the NSW/ACT finalist for the national awards the same year.
Mrs Thomas said the 2026 award was “a special bonus” for doing a job she’s passionate about.
“Getting to do a job I genuinely love each day already feels like a reward in itself,” she said.
“Thank you to my families and fellow educators for nominating me. I’m so immensely grateful for the support and love my little service constantly receives.
“I genuinely love being a Family Day Care Educator and feel incredibly lucky to do what I do each day.
“The children and families who walk through my door quickly become part of my extended family, and the relationships I get to build with them are, without a doubt, what I love most about my job.
“Being trusted by families to play such an important part in their children’s early years is something I’ll never take for granted.”
Celebrating its 15th year in 2026, the Excellence in Family Day Care Awards is the only national awards program dedicated exclusively to family day care.
The awards celebrate the unique benefits of a flexible, home-based approach chosen by 44,690 Australian families, and recognise educators who combine running their own small business with supporting children’s learning, development and wellbeing.
Family Day Care Australia CEO Andrew Paterson congratulated Mrs Thomas on her achievement.
“Kirsty represents the dedication, passion and care that sit at the heart of family day care.
“Every day, she creates a nurturing environment where children can learn, grow and thrive, while building strong and meaningful relationships with children and families.
“We are proud to celebrate Kirsty’s achievement and the valuable contribution she makes to families and her local community.”
Finalists for the national awards were released this week. NSW/ACT will be represented by the South West & M5 Corridor region winner, Tivana Sando.
