Learn how we regulate early childhood education and care in Australia and see how we’re improving access to quality preschool programs.
On this page:
National Quality Framework
The National Quality Framework (NQF) is Australia’s system for regulating early childhood education and care. It provides a national approach to regulation, assessment and quality improvement.
- See laws and regulations
- Learn about quality standards
- See the approved learning frameworks
Approved learning frameworks
The NQF includes 2 approved learning frameworks.
- Read the Early Years Learning Framework
- Read the Framework for School Age Care
- Access translated copies of the frameworks
- Find resources for educators and families
Regulatory authorities
State and territory regulatory authorities are responsible for administering the NQF. We fund an independent agency, the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA), to support regulatory authorities.
- Learn about ACECQA
- Find state and territory regulatory authority contact details
Funding for preschool
The Commonwealth funds states and territories to ensure a nationally consistent quality preschool program is available for all children in the year before school.
- Learn about the Preschool Reform Funding Agreement
- See past funding arrangements
- Read a review of preschool