We’re making it simpler to apply to become an early childhood education and care provider.
On this page:
What’s changing?
From July 2023, prospective providers can apply for Child Care Subsidy (CCS) and National Law approval in one place.
Currently, you must submit applications via two separate platforms to gain these approvals.
There will also be a new e-learning course to help applicants understand their obligations before they apply.
How do I apply from July 2023?
The online applications will be available in the National Quality Agenda IT System (NQA ITS) from July 2023.
Why do I need two approvals?
You need two types of approval to run a service that offers CCS. This is because the state and territory governments and the Australian Government have different roles.
National Law approval
This is granted by the regulatory authority in your state or territory. It deems you suitable to ensure the health, safety, wellbeing and educational outcomes of children. In most cases, you cannot operate a child care service without this approval.
Child Care Subsidy approval
This is granted by the Australian Government Department of Education. It deems you suitable to administer CCS. This approval is only required if you are eligible to offer CCS to families.
From July 2023, you will be able to apply for both approvals via the NQA ITS.
How will applications be assessed?
Applications can be assessed by state and territory regulatory authorities and the Australian Government at the same time.
How will applications be approved?
While applications can be assessed at the same time, approval will still be granted separately. This is because we legally cannot grant CCS approval until you have been granted National Law, or other relevant regulatory legislation, approval.
Why are you making these changes?
These changes will:
- make it easier to prepare and submit applications
- streamline the assessment of applications
- improve consistency of decisions.
What is the e-learning course?
There will be a new e-learning course to help you understand the legal obligations of running a child care service.
The course will cover:
- your obligations regarding the health, safety and wellbeing of children when applying under National Law
- your obligations when applying to administer CCS under Family Assistance Law.
Applicants should complete the course before applying.
The course will be available on ACECQA’s website from July 2023.
What do the changes mean for existing providers?
The streamlined process will also apply to existing providers from July 2023.
This means you’ll be able to use the NQA ITS to add a new service to both of your existing approvals. You won’t need to submit a separate application for CCS approval via the Provider Entry Point.
What do I do if I want to apply before July 2023?
If you’re applying before July 2023, you must:
-
apply for National Law approval via the NQA ITS, and
-
apply for CCS approval via the Provider Entry Point.
We have step-by-step instructions on the current application process on our website.
What’s not changing?
The current CCS application requirements are not changing. All current application information and evidence including PRODA accounts will remain unchanged.
What if I have submitted my application before July but it is not finalised?
CCS applications submitted up to the end of June via the Provider Entry Point will continue to be assessed and will not need to be resubmitted.
Who should I contact if I need help applying?
If your question relates to National Law approval, contact the regulatory authority in your state or territory.
If your question relates to CCS approval, contact CCSassessments@education.gov.au.