The National Quality Framework raises quality and drives continuous improvement and consistency in Australian education and care services.Established in 2012, the NQF applies to most long day care, family day care, preschool/kindergarten and outside schools hours care services.
As an educator or service provider, you will find this section contains detailed information on the National Quality Framework, its implementation and how it applies to you.
Starting Blocks is our new, family friendly resource to give parents information about early childhood education and care to help them make the best choice for their child and family. Visit the Starting Blocks website for more information.
A regulatory authority in each state and territory regulates and assesses children’s education and care services. In this section regulatory authority staff will find information and resources to support their work.
The National Quality Standard (NQS) is a key aspect of the NQF. The NQS consists of seven quality areas, each containing standards and elements, that children's education and care services are assessed and rated against.
ACECQA has produced posters and information for services and families to help better understand the NQF and quality ratings. You can view and download the Quality Area posters here.