Find laws and legislation

Early childhood education and care in Australia is governed by both Commonwealth and state and territory laws. Family Assistance Law sets the rules for administering Child Care Subsidy. The National Law sets a standard for early childhood education and care across Australia.

On this page:

National Law

The National Law sets a national standard for children’s education and care across Australia.

Providers must be approved under the National Law to operate a service. Regulatory authorities in each state and territory grant this approval.

  • Read the National Law
  • See the supporting National Regulations
Read the National Law on the ACECQA website

Family Assistance Law

Family Assistance Law is the basis for the Commonwealth’s Child Care Subsidy.

Providers must be approved under Family Assistance Law to administer the Child Care Subsidy at their service.

The Australian Government grants this approval.Providers must first be granted National Law approval.

  • Read the primary and associated legislation
  • View the legislative instruments
  • See the previous child care system
Go to Family Assistance Law