Best Resources to Help When You’re New to the Childcare Industry
Starting a career or launching a business in the Australian childcare industry can be both exciting and overwhelming. With strict regulations, licensing requirements, and quality standards to meet, it is essential to have the right resources at hand.
With decades of experience specialising in the Early Learning sector, Mollard Property Group have compiled a selection of some of the best organisations and tools to support you on your journey.
- Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA)
ACECQA is the national regulatory body overseeing the implementation of the National Quality Framework (NQF), which sets the standard for early childhood education and care across Australia. Their website provides valuable information for businesses and individuals starting out in the early learning sector such as:
- The National Law and Regulations
- The National Quality Standard (NQS)
- Operational requirements for early childhood services
- Professional development resources
Visit: www.acecqa.gov.au
- Early Childhood Australia (ECA)
ECA is a leading voice in advocating for young children and the early childhood sector. They offer a wealth of resources that can help guide you through your entry to the industry. Their website offers:
- Best practice guidelines
- Professional development opportunities
- Publications and resources for educators
- National conferences and networking events
Visit: www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au
- Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE)
The Australian Government’s DESE website provides policies and programs that support early childhood education and care. Key resources for you to understand operational and financial aspects of running a childcare business include:
- Funding information for childcare providers
- Quality improvement initiatives
- Workforce support programs
Visit: www.education.gov.au
- Mollard Property Group
If you’re looking to start or optimise a childcare centre, Mollard Property Group (MPG) offers expert consultancy services. MPG is Australia’s leading specialist in childcare centre development, offering a one-stop-solution for investors, developers, and operators.
With over 40 successful projects across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Tasmania, MPG provides expert guidance through every stage of childcare development, from site acquisition to centre fit-out and operational approval.
Key services include:
Childcare Site Acquisition & Feasibility
- Strategic property identification and analysis
- Childcare needs assessment and financial feasibility modelling
- Planning approvals and council negotiations
Childcare Centre Design & Development
- Licensing-compliant floor plans
- Architectural and interior design
- Sustainable, functional, and innovative childcare environments
Project & Development Management
- End-to-end oversight from concept to completion
- Regulatory compliance and planning permit facilitation
- Construction, fit-out, and service approval management
Investor & Operator Support
- Tailored leasing and investment solutions
- Market analysis and brand strategy
- Risk mitigation and streamlined approvals
MPG’s proven track record of 100% success in childcare development approvals since 2014 highlights their expertise in delivering high-quality, profitable, and fully compliant childcare centres across Australia.
Contact our team of experts to learn more
- National Quality Framework (NQF)
The NQF provides a national approach to regulation, assessment, and quality improvement for early childhood education and care. Understanding the NQF is crucial for compliance and delivering high-quality services in your childcare centre.
The framework covers:
- Standards for early childhood education and care
- Assessment and rating systems
- Continuous improvement guidelines
Visit: www.acecqa.gov.au/nqf/national-law-regulations
- Local Councils and State Regulatory Authorities
Your local council and state/territory regulatory authorities play a key role in approving and monitoring childcare services. These directly impact the feasibility of your childcare centre, so it is important to open a dialogue with these authorities for guidance on:
- Zoning and planning permissions
- Service licensing requirements
- Compliance inspections and support
Check with your state or territory authority for specific requirements.
- Professional Networks and Associations
Connecting with industry associations can provide invaluable support. Consider joining:
- Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA)
- Family Day Care Australia (FDCA)
- Community Child Care Association (CCC)
These organisations offer advocacy, professional development, and networking opportunities for operators and investors in the early learning sector.
Navigating the Australian childcare industry is easier with the right resources and expert guidance. By leveraging these tools and organisations, you can establish a high-quality, compliant, and successful childcare service that supports children’s learning and development.
While there are many moving parts, the process does not need to be overwhelming. Contact Mollard Property Group for expert guidance and services to bring your vision to life.