ACECQA prepares special guidance for ECEC services in multi-storey buildings

Given the increased risks when evacuating young children and babies from centre-based early childhood education and care (ECEC) services in multi-storey buildings, ACECQA has prepared specific guidance on design considerations, in line with regulatory requirements of the National Quality Framework (NQF). 

National Quality Framework Design Considerations for Centre-Based Early Childhood Education and Care Services in Multi-Storey Buildings has been developed to guide building and construction professionals such as developers, architects and planning professionals in state and local government who are working with prospective or current providers to establish a service in a multi-storey building.

Approved providers who intend to build a multi-storey service may also find the guidance of use as they undertake consultations with building and construction professionals. The core message of the guidance is that improved safety outcomes and streamlined approvals are achieved when NQF regulatory requirements are taken into account at the beginning of the design process.

The information sheet aims to improve overall understanding and awareness of:

• the service approvals process under the NQF;
• physical and building features enabling safety in multi-storey buildings; and, 
• ongoing operational requirements for approved providers of children’s education and care services relating to emergency evacuation under the NQF.

To access the guidance document please see here.