Most services for children are regulated to make sure children are protected from harm and have the best chances for learning and development.
There are two ways early childhood services are regulated in Victoria.
To find out more about the regulation of child care, visit the
Regulation and Quality Assessment pages of our website.
Services regulated under the National Quality Framework
Most early childhood services are regulated under the
National Quality Framework. This includes:
- long day care services
- family day care services
- kindergartens
- outside school hours care services
Services regulated under state law
A number of early childhood services are
regulated under state law called the Victorian Children’s Services Act 1996. These services are usually occasional care services, mobile services, budget-based services not funded for Child Care Benefit or school holiday care programs.
If you have concerns about your child care or kindergarten
You should make a complaint to the Department’s regional office in your area if you are concerned that:
- the health, safety and wellbeing of children may have been compromised or
- you believe the relevant legislation has been contravened at an early childhood service.
Contact: