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Regulations

Early Childhood Education and Care - Regulation Impact Statement and Public Consultation Forums

The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) is considering options for reforming the quality and regulation of early childhood education and care providers and developing a new quality rating system. COAG has agreed that a jointly governed, unified national system will replace current licensing and quality assurance processes.

The Consultation Regulation Impact Statement (CRIS) explains the changes being considered and assesses the relative costs and benefits of each option. It also sets out the consultation process. Comments are invited from all interested people; feedback will be considered in developing a final proposal for decision by COAG later this year.

The CRIS is available from the Commonwealth Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations or by telephoning 1800 220 425. Submissions must be received by Monday 31 August 2009.

As many people as possible are encouraged to participate and provide feedback, particularly users of NT children's services. Public consultations will be held to ensure that parents and the sector have their say on what is needed to ensure high quality education and care for their children. These consultations will be central to any final decision on future direction. It is critical that the community, parents and the child care sector, contribute their views on what is needed to improve the quality of education and care.

If you have any enquiries, please contact the Early Childhood Quality and Workforce Branch, DEEWR.

Regulations

Under the new Care and Protection of Children Act changes have been made to the childrens service's regulations.

By broadening the range of services regulated to include services provided by outside school care programs, and home based care services among others, we can ensure that more children are protected when accessing care and learning programs.

Regulating NT children's services will provide a number of benefits:

  • Children are supported to achieve their optimum development
  • The risk of harm to children is minimised
  • Community expectations are met.

Transition periods have been developed to allow time for all service types to accommodate the new arrangements. 

If you have any questions about the new legislation or its implications, please contact Early Childhood Services.