This resource explains the National Quality Framework, Australia’s system for regulating early learning and school age care including: legislation and national quality standard, sector profiles and data, and learning frameworks.

The National Quality Framework

The National Quality Framework (NQF) provides a national approach to regulation, assessment and quality improvement for early childhood education and care and outside school hours care services across Australia.

Learn about quality in early childhood education and care

The National Quality Standard (NQS) is an integral part of the National Quality Framework (NQF) for early childhood education and care in Australia. It can assist families when choosing a service.

Understanding the National Quality Standard

This article is a brief guide to the assessment and rating process for approved early childhood education and care services across Australia.

The assessment and rating process

They are different types of early childhood education and care services, and all have benefits. Learn more about the different types of child care services, including centre-based, family day care, preschool, outside school hours care, mobile and in home care.

Types of childrens education and care services

Parent and educator

When searching for an early childhood education or outside school hours care service, the service quality rating is an important factor to consider. Learn more about what the quality ratings mean.

Service quality ratings 

Educator and two children playing indoors

To find the right quality early learning service for your child, consider the service quality rating and visiting the service at least once.

What does a quality early learning service look like?

Child Care Subsidy rates are changing soon. 

Choosing a service