We are seeking input from large not-for-profit providers about their capacity to build and operate multiple new early childhood education and care (ECEC) services in areas of need across Australia. Responses will help shape a future grant opportunity under the Building Early Education Fund.
On this page:
What is market sounding?
Market sounding helps us understand capacity, interest and delivery constraints in the not-for-profit sector. We are asking large not-for-profit providers to tell us about their ability to build and run multiple new services at scale.
Market sounding is not a grant application. Your response will inform the design and eligibility for a future grant round under the Building Early Education Fund.
Who can participate?
You may submit a response to the market sounding if your organisation:
- is a not-for-profit organisation
- is a Child Care Subsidy (CCS) approved provider
- currently operates 10 or more CCS-approved Centre-Based Day Care (CBDC) services.
We are particularly interested in organisations that:
- have a strong track record of meeting National Quality Framework (NQF) requirements
- consistently comply with the Family Assistance Law
- have interest and capacity to deliver 2 or more new CBDC services in areas of need
- have available land or the capacity to acquire land
- can demonstrate experience building new ECEC services that comply with National Law requirements.
What will funding be for?
A future grant opportunity is expected to focus on targeted capital funding to deliver additional new ECEC services in areas of need. For example, projects may include:
- services that are viable but face barriers to accessing infrastructure finance
- projects under consideration that could be expanded with co-contribution from the Building Fund to deliver additional places where there is demand
- sites with lower viability that meet important demand and could be supported across a portfolio of new or existing services.
What are areas of need?
To determine priority areas, we will:
- analyse a range of sources including data on supply, need and disadvantage
- work with state, territory and local governments and peak bodies
- consult communities.
How do I participate?
Market sounding is now open. If you meet the requirements above, we invite you to complete the market sounding form.
The form must be completed by a person with management or control (PMC) of your provider or a nominated individual.
Submissions close 5 pm AEDT 5 November 2025. We cannot accommodate extensions.
We will review responses to inform the design and eligibility for a future grant opportunity for large not-for-profit providers. We may contact you to clarify or request further information.
If you have questions or need help, contact ccshelpdesk@education.gov.au.