ACECQA’s eighth NQF annual performance report shows a milestone achievement

The Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) released its eighth Annual Performance Report on the National Quality Framework (NQF) today. The report highlights that, as at 30 June 2024, 90% of children’s education and care services that have been assessed are rated Meeting National Quality Standard (NQS) or above.

“This achievement is particularly impressive because of the high quality bar the NQS sets and the significant growth in the education and care sector in the past few years. It reflects the consistent efforts and commitment of service providers, teachers, educators and service staff to continually improve their programs and practice for the benefit of children and families” said ACECQA CEO Gabrielle Sinclair.

This year’s report focuses on children’s health and safety, educational program and practice, children from vulnerable and disadvantaged backgrounds, workforce, and service provider perception of the NQF. It highlights continuous quality improvement across all seven quality areas of the NQS.

There are around 17,700 NQF approved education and care services in Australia as at 30 June 2024. These services include long day care, outside school hours care and family day care services, as well as most preschools and kindergartens. The high quality standards and robust legislated requirements set by the NQF constitute a firm quality assurance for parents/carers and families using approved services.