Approved providers must understand their legal responsibilities to run early childhood education and care (ECEC) services and follow the relevant laws and regulations.
Applicants may need to prove this understanding during the provider application process, which could involve completing a knowledge assessment and/or an interview with NSW Regulatory Authority for ECEC staff (see step 5 for further details).
Identifying the right regulatory framework that relates to the service type you would like to operate will also determine how you must submit your application.
Centre based or family day care services
Centre-based services include long day care, preschool, out of school hours care (OSHC) and vacation care.
Family day care services provide education and care for small groups of children from birth to age 12 in homes or approved venues.
Centre-based services and family day care services are regulated under the National Quality Framework (NQF). The NQF consists of the Children (Education and Care Services) National Law, Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standards.
To learn more about the responsibilities of an approved provider under the National Law and Regulations, download the Guide to the National Quality Framework.
Prior to applying to become an approved provider, it is recommended you complete the free National Law & Child Care Subsidy Approval course. If you would like to receive a completion certificate, you will need to complete 4 out of the 5 modules from this course. If you decide to apply for provider approval, this certificate can be submitted with your application as additional evidence.
Mobile, multifunctional Aboriginal children’s services and occasional care services
Mobile, multifunctional Aboriginal children’s services and occasional care services are regulated by the regulatory authority under the Children (Education and Care Services) Supplementary Provisions Act and the Children (Education and Care Services) Supplementary Provisions Regulation.