ECE Funding Handbook

Welcome to the Early Childhood Funding Handbook. This Funding Handbook is issued under section 548(5) of the Education and Training Act 2020(external link). The funding paid to licensed services is paid subject to the terms and conditions set out under this Handbook and must be complied with. The terms used in this Handbook are based in the Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008.

This Handbook is designed to be a ‘one-stop-shop’ for all you need to know about early childhood funding, including:

  • the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Funding Subsidy
  • 20 Hours Early Childhood Education (ECE)
  • Equity Funding
  • the Annual Top-Up for Isolated Services

Note: The information in the Funding Handbook does not apply to certificated playgroups. These services should contact their Ministry regional office for further information.

Downloading the ECE Funding Handbook

If you want a printed copy of this handbook, refer to the list of downloads in the contents section where you will find downloadable PDF versions of each chapter.

ECE Funding Handbook downloads

9-10 Declaration

A Symbol Clipboard

RS7 Returns must have a completed Declaration

All RS7 Returns must be accompanied by a completed Declaration. The wording of this Declaration is shown below.

Declaration

I certify that, to the best of my knowledge, the information contained on this form is true and correct.

I understand that:

  • if I have made a false statement or
  • if I have failed to answer all the questions in full or
  • if I do not provide documentation supporting the funding claim or
  • if I do not make documents available for inspection or
  • if I do not tell the Ministry of Education of changes that may affect funding claims or rates

then

  • The funding claim may be reviewed and funding withheld and/or
  • I will have to pay back the total amount of any overpayment and/or
  • I may be prosecuted and fined or imprisoned.

By signing this declaration, I am confirming that this funding claim is made in accordance with the conditions outlined in the current Early Childhood Education Funding Handbook and that the Ministry can withhold all or some of the funding if there is a breach of any of these conditions.

  • If you are completing a paper-based RS7 Return, this Declaration will be signed. Paper-based RS7 Returns must be completed in pen and signed in order to be processed for funding. Do not use pencil anywhere on your RS7 Return.
  • If you are completing an electronic RS7 Return, this Declaration will be submitted.