CECA assess provider and service approval applications submitted via the National Quality Agenda IT System (NQAITS) Portal.
Each section of the application is required to be completed, particularly the declarations. All relevant information requested in the application must be submitted.
Once an application is deemed complete by the Authority, the National Law requires CECA to assess a provider approval application within 60 days and to assess a service approval application within 90 days.
CECA may ask applicants to attend an interview and written assessment as part of the approval process. For more information visit the information for provider, service leaders and educators page .
When considering service approval applications, CECA must have regard to the National Quality Framework (NQF) including the National Quality Standard (NQS) and the suitability of the ECEC service premises. Section 3 of the National Law identifies the objectives and guiding principles of the NQF.
The National Law requires CECA to be satisfied that the approved provider has legal authority to use the proposed premises and that the premises meets the requirements specified in the National Law.
Outdoor environment guidelines
CECA recognises the significant role the physical environment has in the delivery of education and care programs for ECEC services.
The importance of outdoor learning environments is embedded within the requirements of the NQF.
The Outdoor environment guidelines: requirements for approval of centre-based care services (711kb) will assist in determining the suitability of a site during the concept and planning stages of an ECEC service.
Centre based education and care services planning guidelines
ACT development approvals, building approvals and service approvals for ECEC services are authorised under different laws.
The National Law requires compliance with planning and building laws before a service approval can be considered. The National Law also requires specific spatial and building elements.
Critical issues required for service approval or building approval must be considered during development approval and building approval.
Centre based education and care services planning guidelines: designing high quality early childhood education and care services for ACT children (755kb) is a guide to critical issues for the design and development stages of an ECEC service.
This includes design of extensions and renovations that do not require development approval but must consider the requirements of the National Construction Code and National Law.
Developers, architects, and prospective ECEC providers should apply these guidelines when designing ECEC services.