Understanding ACECQA’s National Decision Tree: guidance for approved providers, persons with management control and educators

Deciding whether and how to notify the regulatory authority under the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations can sometimes be complex. The ACECQA National Decision Tree (NDT) is an interactive online tool that continues to support approved providers, nominated supervisors and educators to navigate reporting obligations with confidence.

• whether an incident, complaint or change must be reported
• the correct notification form to complete
• the timeframe for submission through the NQA IT System.

• Clarity and consistency: Supports services to apply the National Law consistently, reducing uncertainty.
• Timeframe awareness: Ensures notifications are lodged within required deadlines.
• Compliance support: Builds confidence that reporting decisions align with legal requirements under the National Quality Framework (NQF).

1. Access the NDT on ACECQA’s website.
2. Work through the guided questions relevant to the incident or change.
3. Follow the outcome: if a notification is required, the tool directs users to the correct NQA IT System form.
4. Include comprehensive details (time, date, description, people involved, supporting evidence).

• Serious incidents or injury
• Allegations of abuse or harm
• Complaints raising safety or compliance concerns
• A child missing or not accounted for
• Changes to provider or service information

1. Open the NDT on the ACECQA website.
2. Answer the guided scenario questions.
3. Follow the outcome, if reporting is required, complete the correct form in the NQA IT System.
4. Record and retain details for your service’s compliance records.

• Bookmark the NDT and make it easily accessible for all staff.
• Incorporate role-play scenarios into team meetings to practise decision-making.
• Keep documentation thorough when submitting notifications to aid regulator assessment.
• Align NDT use with existing policies and procedures for incident reporting and child safety.