Inquiry launched into oversight and regulation of the early childhood sector

A broad inquiry into the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector in New South Wales is now underway, following reports of regulatory oversight failures and growing pressure for reform.

Chaired by Greens MP Abigail Boyd, the inquiry will examine how well the current system is protecting children, supporting educators, and delivering quality outcomes across the sector.

The NSW Legislative Council’s Portfolio Committee No. 3 – Education is leading the review, with a final report due by 31 March 2026.

The terms of reference include;

• the safety and well-being of children,
• the quality of education and care,
• educator pay and conditions,
• regulatory effectiveness,
• transparency around service data, and;
• access to training and qualifications.

The inquiry will also look at the experiences of children with disability and the broader impact of government funding on the structure and quality of services.

Members of the committee include Rachel Merton (Liberal), Mark Buttigieg, Anthony D’Adam, and Emily Suvaal (Labor), Sarah Mitchell (Nationals), and Tania Mihailuk (Independent).

Submissions to the inquiry are open until 30 May 2025, with public hearings scheduled for August through October. The committee has the power to compel evidence from senior executives, peak bodies, and members of the community.

The inquiry is one of the most comprehensive ECEC reviews to take place in NSW in recent years and is expected to attract strong interest from peak bodies and providers, particularly considering recent regulatory reviews in other jurisdictions.

More information, including how to submit feedback to the inquiry, is available on the NSW Parliament website, or the team at Piper Alderman is also able to be of assistance with making a submission and answering any questions.