National Quality Framework (NQF)

The National Quality Framework (NQF) is an Australian national approach to regulation that sets the standards for early childhood education and care (ECEC) services. The NQF was introduced in 2012 and is overseen by the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA).

The NQF provides a consistent approach to the regulation and quality assessment of all ECEC services in Australia, including long day care, family day care, preschool/kindergarten programs, and outside school hours care. It aims to improve the quality of ECEC services and ensure that children receive the best possible start in life.

The NQF includes a number of key elements, including:

1. National Quality Standard (NQS): This is a set of 7 quality areas and 18 standards that all ECEC services must meet in order to be considered high quality.
2. National Regulations: These are the rules and regulations that ECEC services must comply with in order to operate legally.
3. Assessment and Rating Process: All ECEC services are assessed and rated against the NQS to determine their level of quality.
4. National Quality Agenda (NQA): This is a set of reforms and initiatives that aim to improve the quality of ECEC services in Australia over time.

The NQF is designed to ensure that all children in Australia have access to high-quality ECEC services that support their development and well-being. It also provides a framework for parents and caregivers to make informed choices about the ECEC services they use.

View: Guide to the National Quality Framework