Introduction to early childhood services#

This guide is for people thinking about starting early childhood services. It will give you an understanding of: 

• the types of early childhood services
• legislation and regulations
• funding
• what to consider when starting a service.
   

Guide to starting a centre-based service#

This guide is to help prospective providers of centre-based early childhood services understand what is required to start a service.

It includes information about:

• designing and building your new premises
• equipment you will need
• complying with licensing criteria
• roles and responsibilities and preparing for staff employment
• policies, procedure and record keeping
• required assessments, approvals and registrations.

Applying for a centre-based service licence#

This guide has details about the process to apply for a centre-based early childhood service licence. 
 

Step-by-step guide to starting a centre-based service#

A high-level overview of the steps to follow to start a centre-based early childhood service.

Checklist for choosing your premises#

This checklist will help you consider a range of issues when choosing a location for your new premises.

Laws and regulations#

This fact sheet outlines the laws, regulations and criteria that govern early childhood service operations, with links to more online information.

Useful contact information#

This fact sheet has contact details and links to useful information from other organisations.