Families to access more regulatory information about ECEC services

Families searching for early childhood education and care (ECEC) services can now access more detailed regulatory information through StartingBlocks.gov.au, following updates that came into effect this week.

Each service profile on the website will now display:

• The date the local regulatory authority last visited the service
• Any conditions placed on a provider or service by the regulator
• A clearer link between a service and its approved provider

The additional information is intended to increase transparency, giving families a clearer picture of how services are regulated and monitored.

Understanding the new information

How regulatory authorities support compliance

Regulatory authorities in each state and territory are responsible for monitoring compliance with the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations. This includes conducting regular visits to services and assessing compliance with the National Quality Framework (NQF).

What is a condition?

Conditions are specific requirements or restrictions that may be placed on an approved provider or service by a regulatory authority. These can be applied when particular risks are identified or when additional safeguards are required.

Types of conditions

Conditions may relate to staffing, service operations, physical environments or other areas of compliance. For example, a provider may be required to increase staff numbers during certain periods, restrict use of a particular space, or introduce additional safety measures.

What happens if an approved provider breaches a condition?

Breaching a condition is a serious matter and can result in regulatory action. This may include compliance notices, penalties or, in severe cases, suspension or cancellation of provider or service approval.

More detail is available on StartingBlocks.gov.au: Conditions.

What this means for families

By making this information available on StartingBlocks.gov.au, families will be able to:

• See when their service was last visited by the regulator
• Understand if any conditions apply to the service or provider
• Trace the link between a service and its approved provider, increasing transparency and accountability

This change complements existing information already published on StartingBlocks, such as service ratings against the National Quality Standard, fees, inclusions and vacancies.

Families are encouraged to use the platform as a key tool when comparing services and making decisions about their child’s early learning and care.