Regulatory framework
Find out how we administer the regulation of services in accordance with various acts, regulations and frameworks.
The regulations that govern early childhood education services in NSW depend on the service type. Most services are regulated under the National Quality Framework (NQF).
The NSW Department of Education administers the regulation of services in accordance with the:
- National Quality Framework and the National Quality Standards
- the Children (Education and Care Services) Supplementary Provisions Act 2011 and the Children (Education and Care Services) Supplementary Provisions Regulation 2019.
National Quality Framework and National Quality Standard
Most education and care services for children around Australia are regulated under the National Quality Framework (NQF).
The National Quality Framework (NQF) is the result of an agreement between all Australian governments to work together to provide better educational and developmental outcomes for children.
The Framework includes the:
A National Quality Standard for services is an important part of the Regulations.
Service types regulated under the National Law
The National Law and Regulations regulate the following service types:
- long day care
- family day care
- preschools
- outside school hours care.
Changes to the NQF
Regular reviews of the NQF ensure the regulatory system remains current, achieves its objectives, and supports approved providers and services to provide high quality education and care to children and young people.
The 2019 NQF Review recommended changes to the Education and Care Services National Law and National Regulations, as well as producing and making available additional guidance for the sector to enhance children’s health, safety and wellbeing.
Key changes from the 2019 NQF Review included new safety requirements, improved oversight and compliance tools for Regulatory Authorities, new workforce requirements and improved regulatory guidance.
Find out about the 2019 NQF Review.
Supplementary Provisions Act
Some service types are regulated under the Children (Education and Care Services) Supplementary Provisions Act 2011 and the Children (Education and Care Services) Supplementary Provisions Regulation 2019.
These service types include:
- mobile services
- occasional care services
The Supplementary Provisions Act was updated in 2018 to bring standards into line with those for services regulated under the National Law.