The National Quality Standard (NQS) can assist families when choosing an early childhood education and care 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

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

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?

They are different types of early childhood education and care services, occurring in different environments and all have benefits. Learn more about the different types of children's education and care services, including centre-based, family day care, preschool and outside school hours care.

Types of childrens education and care services

The Child Care Subsidy has increased. Visit childcaresubsidy.gov.au for details.

Choosing a service