{"id":"qld:sl-2013-0265","name":"Education and Care Services Regulation 2013","slug":"education-and-care-services-regulation-2013","collection":"regulation","jurisdiction":"qld","status":"in_force","isInForce":true,"actNumber":"265 of 2013","makingDate":null,"administeringDepartment":null,"currentVersion":{"id":175645,"registerId":"qld-qld:sl-2013-0265-current","compilationNumber":null,"startDate":"2026-04-05","status":"InForce","reasons":null,"registeredAt":null},"sections":[{"sectionNumber":"pt.1","sectionType":"part","heading":"Preliminary","content":"# Preliminary","sortOrder":0},{"sectionNumber":"sec.1","sectionType":"section","heading":"Short title","content":"### sec.1 Short title\n\nThis regulation may be cited as the Education and Care Services Regulation 2013 .","sortOrder":1},{"sectionNumber":"sec.2","sectionType":"section","heading":"Commencement","content":"### sec.2 Commencement\n\nThis regulation commences on 1 January 2014.","sortOrder":2},{"sectionNumber":"sec.3","sectionType":"section","heading":"Dictionary","content":"### sec.3 Dictionary\n\nThe dictionary in schedule 5 defines particular words used in this regulation.\ns 3 amd 2013 SL No. 265 s 81 sch 5 pt 1","sortOrder":3},{"sectionNumber":"pt.2","sectionType":"part","heading":"Queensland provider approvals","content":"# Queensland provider approvals","sortOrder":4},{"sectionNumber":"sec.4","sectionType":"section","heading":"Notice to parents of suspension or cancellation of provider approval— Act , s 36 (8) (a)","content":"### sec.4 Notice to parents of suspension or cancellation of provider approval— Act , s 36 (8) (a)\n\nFor section 36 (8) (a) of the Act , a notice of the suspension or cancellation of a provider approval given to a parent must state the following—\nthe date on which the decision to suspend or cancel the provider approval takes effect;\nthe effect of the suspension or cancellation;\nthe address of the approved provider;\nthe name of the approved provider.\nIf the provider approval is suspended, the notice must also state the date on which the suspension ends.\nIf the approved provider is required to give a notice to a parent under sections 36 and 88 of the Act , the approved provider may give a single notice stating the matters in this section and section 6 .\n(sec.4-ssec.1) For section 36 (8) (a) of the Act , a notice of the suspension or cancellation of a provider approval given to a parent must state the following— the date on which the decision to suspend or cancel the provider approval takes effect; the effect of the suspension or cancellation; the address of the approved provider; the name of the approved provider.\n(sec.4-ssec.2) If the provider approval is suspended, the notice must also state the date on which the suspension ends.\n(sec.4-ssec.3) If the approved provider is required to give a notice to a parent under sections 36 and 88 of the Act , the approved provider may give a single notice stating the matters in this section and section 6 .\n- (a) the date on which the decision to suspend or cancel the provider approval takes effect;\n- (b) the effect of the suspension or cancellation;\n- (c) the address of the approved provider;\n- (d) the name of the approved provider.","sortOrder":5},{"sectionNumber":"pt.3","sectionType":"part","heading":"Queensland service approvals","content":"# Queensland service approvals","sortOrder":6},{"sectionNumber":"sec.5","sectionType":"section","heading":"Prescribed insurance— Act , s 49 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.5 Prescribed insurance— Act , s 49 (2) (c)\n\nFor section 49 (2) (c) of the Act , the insurance cover is public liability insurance for an amount of at least $10m.","sortOrder":7},{"sectionNumber":"sec.6","sectionType":"section","heading":"Notice to parents of suspension or cancellation of service approval— Act , s 88 (8) (a)","content":"### sec.6 Notice to parents of suspension or cancellation of service approval— Act , s 88 (8) (a)\n\nFor section 88 (8) (a) of the Act , a notice of the suspension or cancellation of a service approval given to a parent must state the following—\nthe date on which the decision to suspend or cancel the service approval takes effect;\nthe effect of the suspension or cancellation;\nthe address of the QEC service;\nthe name of the QEC service.\nIf the service approval is suspended, the notice must also state the date on which the suspension ends.\n(sec.6-ssec.1) For section 88 (8) (a) of the Act , a notice of the suspension or cancellation of a service approval given to a parent must state the following— the date on which the decision to suspend or cancel the service approval takes effect; the effect of the suspension or cancellation; the address of the QEC service; the name of the QEC service.\n(sec.6-ssec.2) If the service approval is suspended, the notice must also state the date on which the suspension ends.\n- (a) the date on which the decision to suspend or cancel the service approval takes effect;\n- (b) the effect of the suspension or cancellation;\n- (c) the address of the QEC service;\n- (d) the name of the QEC service.","sortOrder":8},{"sectionNumber":"sec.7","sectionType":"section","heading":"Prescribed requirements for service waivers— Act , s 92 (1)","content":"### sec.7 Prescribed requirements for service waivers— Act , s 92 (1)\n\nFor section 92 (1) of the Act , the following requirements are prescribed for a service waiver—\nfencing;\nnappy change facilities;\nindoor space—general;\nindoor space—additional;\noutdoor space—general;\noutdoor space—additional;\nadministrative space;\npremises designed to facilitate supervision;\nsupervision of educators under 18 years;\neducator to child ratios generally;\neducator qualifications.\n- (a) fencing;\n- (b) nappy change facilities;\n- (c) indoor space—general;\n- (d) indoor space—additional;\n- (e) outdoor space—general;\n- (f) outdoor space—additional;\n- (g) administrative space;\n- (h) premises designed to facilitate supervision;\n- (i) supervision of educators under 18 years;\n- (j) educator to child ratios generally;\n- (k) educator qualifications.","sortOrder":9},{"sectionNumber":"sec.8","sectionType":"section","heading":"Prescribed requirements for temporary waivers— Act , s 99 (1)","content":"### sec.8 Prescribed requirements for temporary waivers— Act , s 99 (1)\n\nFor section 99 (1) of the Act , the following requirements are prescribed for a temporary waiver—\nfencing;\nnappy change facilities;\nindoor space—general;\nindoor space—additional;\noutdoor space—general;\noutdoor space—additional;\nadministrative space;\npremises designed to facilitate supervision;\nsupervision of educators under 18 years;\neducator to child ratios generally;\neducator qualifications;\nfirst aid qualifications.\n- (a) fencing;\n- (b) nappy change facilities;\n- (c) indoor space—general;\n- (d) indoor space—additional;\n- (e) outdoor space—general;\n- (f) outdoor space—additional;\n- (g) administrative space;\n- (h) premises designed to facilitate supervision;\n- (i) supervision of educators under 18 years;\n- (j) educator to child ratios generally;\n- (k) educator qualifications;\n- (l) first aid qualifications.","sortOrder":10},{"sectionNumber":"pt.4","sectionType":"part","heading":"Conduct of QEC approved services","content":"# Conduct of QEC approved services","sortOrder":11},{"sectionNumber":"pt.4-div.1","sectionType":"division","heading":"Educational programs","content":"## Educational programs","sortOrder":12},{"sectionNumber":"sec.9","sectionType":"section","heading":"Development of educational programs— Act , s 244 (2) (b)","content":"### sec.9 Development of educational programs— Act , s 244 (2) (b)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must develop an educational program based on the following documents—\n‘Belonging, Being and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia’, published by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations of the Commonwealth for the Council of Australian Governments in 2009;\n‘My Time, Our Place: Framework for School Age Care in Australia’, published by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations of the Commonwealth for the Council of Australian Governments in 2011;\nanother document detailing matters that the chief executive considers are equivalent to the matters contained in the documents mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) .\n- (a) ‘Belonging, Being and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia’, published by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations of the Commonwealth for the Council of Australian Governments in 2009;\n- (b) ‘My Time, Our Place: Framework for School Age Care in Australia’, published by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations of the Commonwealth for the Council of Australian Governments in 2011;\n- (c) another document detailing matters that the chief executive considers are equivalent to the matters contained in the documents mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) .","sortOrder":13},{"sectionNumber":"sec.10","sectionType":"section","heading":"Delivery of educational programs— Act , s 244 (2) (b)","content":"### sec.10 Delivery of educational programs— Act , s 244 (2) (b)\n\nAn educational program must contribute to the following outcomes for each child—\nthe child will have a strong sense of identity;\nthe child will be connected with and contribute to his or her world;\nthe child will have a strong sense of wellbeing;\nthe child will be a confident and involved learner;\nthe child will be an effective communicator.\n- (a) the child will have a strong sense of identity;\n- (b) the child will be connected with and contribute to his or her world;\n- (c) the child will have a strong sense of wellbeing;\n- (d) the child will be a confident and involved learner;\n- (e) the child will be an effective communicator.","sortOrder":14},{"sectionNumber":"sec.11","sectionType":"section","heading":"Documentation about educational programs— Act , s 244 (2) (b)","content":"### sec.11 Documentation about educational programs— Act , s 244 (2) (b)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the following are documented for the educational program of the QEC service—\nfor a child, other than a school child—\nassessments of the child’s developmental needs, interests, experiences and participation in the educational program; and\nassessments of the child’s progress against the outcomes of the educational program; and\nfor a school child, evaluations of the child’s wellbeing, development and learning.\nIn preparing the documentation, the approved provider must—\nconsider—\nthe period of time that the QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child; and\nhow the educators at the QEC approved service will use the documentation; and\nprepare the documentation in a way that is readily understandable by the educators taking into account the experience and qualifications of the educators at the QEC approved service and the parents of the child.\n(sec.11-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the following are documented for the educational program of the QEC service— for a child, other than a school child— assessments of the child’s developmental needs, interests, experiences and participation in the educational program; and assessments of the child’s progress against the outcomes of the educational program; and for a school child, evaluations of the child’s wellbeing, development and learning.\n(sec.11-ssec.2) In preparing the documentation, the approved provider must— consider— the period of time that the QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child; and how the educators at the QEC approved service will use the documentation; and prepare the documentation in a way that is readily understandable by the educators taking into account the experience and qualifications of the educators at the QEC approved service and the parents of the child.\n- (a) for a child, other than a school child— (i) assessments of the child’s developmental needs, interests, experiences and participation in the educational program; and (ii) assessments of the child’s progress against the outcomes of the educational program; and\n- (i) assessments of the child’s developmental needs, interests, experiences and participation in the educational program; and\n- (ii) assessments of the child’s progress against the outcomes of the educational program; and\n- (b) for a school child, evaluations of the child’s wellbeing, development and learning.\n- (i) assessments of the child’s developmental needs, interests, experiences and participation in the educational program; and\n- (ii) assessments of the child’s progress against the outcomes of the educational program; and\n- (a) consider— (i) the period of time that the QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child; and (ii) how the educators at the QEC approved service will use the documentation; and\n- (i) the period of time that the QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child; and\n- (ii) how the educators at the QEC approved service will use the documentation; and\n- (b) prepare the documentation in a way that is readily understandable by the educators taking into account the experience and qualifications of the educators at the QEC approved service and the parents of the child.\n- (i) the period of time that the QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child; and\n- (ii) how the educators at the QEC approved service will use the documentation; and","sortOrder":15},{"sectionNumber":"sec.12","sectionType":"section","heading":"Documentation about educational programs to be kept available— Act , s 244 (2) (b)","content":"### sec.12 Documentation about educational programs to be kept available— Act , s 244 (2) (b)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that—\ninformation about the contents and operation of the educational program for the QEC approved service is displayed at the QEC service premises at a place accessible to a parent of a QEC service child; and\na copy of the educational program is available at the QEC approved service premises for inspection on request.\n- (a) information about the contents and operation of the educational program for the QEC approved service is displayed at the QEC service premises at a place accessible to a parent of a QEC service child; and\n- (b) a copy of the educational program is available at the QEC approved service premises for inspection on request.","sortOrder":16},{"sectionNumber":"sec.13","sectionType":"section","heading":"Information about educational programs to be given to parents— Act , s 244 (2) (b)","content":"### sec.13 Information about educational programs to be given to parents— Act , s 244 (2) (b)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a parent of a QEC service child is given the following on request—\ninformation about the content and operation of the educational program so far as it relates to that child;\ninformation about the child’s participation in the program.\n- (a) information about the content and operation of the educational program so far as it relates to that child;\n- (b) information about the child’s participation in the program.","sortOrder":17},{"sectionNumber":"pt.4-div.2","sectionType":"division","heading":"Safety, health and wellbeing of children","content":"## Safety, health and wellbeing of children","sortOrder":18},{"sectionNumber":"sec.14","sectionType":"section","heading":"Health, hygiene and safe food practices— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.14 Health, hygiene and safe food practices— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the staff members of, and volunteers at, the QEC service implement the following to minimise risks to a QEC service child—\nadequate health and hygiene practices; and\nsafe practices for handling, preparing and storing food.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n- (a) adequate health and hygiene practices; and\n- (b) safe practices for handling, preparing and storing food.","sortOrder":19},{"sectionNumber":"sec.15","sectionType":"section","heading":"Food and beverages— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.15 Food and beverages— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a QEC service child—\nhas access to safe drinking water at all times; and\nis offered food and beverages appropriate to the needs of the child on a regular basis throughout the day.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\nIf the approved provider gives food or beverages to a QEC service child, the approved provider must ensure that—\nthe food or beverages given are nutritious and adequate in quantity; and\nthe food or beverages given are chosen having regard to the dietary requirements of individual children taking into account—\neach child’s growth and development needs; and\nany specific cultural, religious or health requirements.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.15-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a QEC service child— has access to safe drinking water at all times; and is offered food and beverages appropriate to the needs of the child on a regular basis throughout the day. Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.15-ssec.2) If the approved provider gives food or beverages to a QEC service child, the approved provider must ensure that— the food or beverages given are nutritious and adequate in quantity; and the food or beverages given are chosen having regard to the dietary requirements of individual children taking into account— each child’s growth and development needs; and any specific cultural, religious or health requirements. Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n- (a) has access to safe drinking water at all times; and\n- (b) is offered food and beverages appropriate to the needs of the child on a regular basis throughout the day.\n- (a) the food or beverages given are nutritious and adequate in quantity; and\n- (b) the food or beverages given are chosen having regard to the dietary requirements of individual children taking into account— (i) each child’s growth and development needs; and (ii) any specific cultural, religious or health requirements.\n- (i) each child’s growth and development needs; and\n- (ii) any specific cultural, religious or health requirements.\n- (i) each child’s growth and development needs; and\n- (ii) any specific cultural, religious or health requirements.","sortOrder":20},{"sectionNumber":"sec.16","sectionType":"section","heading":"Sleep and rest— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.16 Sleep and rest— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the need for sleep and rest of a QEC service child are met, having regard to the age, development stage and individual need of the child.\nMaximum penalty—10 penalty units.","sortOrder":21},{"sectionNumber":"sec.17","sectionType":"section","heading":"Alcohol, illicit drugs and tobacco free environment— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.17 Alcohol, illicit drugs and tobacco free environment— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that QEC children are provided with an environment that is free from the use of alcohol, illicit drugs and tobacco.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.","sortOrder":22},{"sectionNumber":"sec.18","sectionType":"section","heading":"Staff members and volunteers not to be affected by alcohol or drugs— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.18 Staff members and volunteers not to be affected by alcohol or drugs— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a staff member of, or volunteer at, the QEC service is not affected by alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications, so as to impair his or her capacity to supervise or provide regulated education and care to a QEC service child.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.","sortOrder":23},{"sectionNumber":"sec.19","sectionType":"section","heading":"Authority to give medical attention— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.19 Authority to give medical attention— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure regulated education and care is not provided to a QEC service child unless a parent of the child has given the approved provider a medical authorisation for the child.\nIn this section—\nmedical authorisation , for a child, means written authorisation for a staff member of, or a volunteer at, a QEC service to provide appropriate medical attention for the child in an emergency.\n(sec.19-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure regulated education and care is not provided to a QEC service child unless a parent of the child has given the approved provider a medical authorisation for the child.\n(sec.19-ssec.2) In this section— medical authorisation , for a child, means written authorisation for a staff member of, or a volunteer at, a QEC service to provide appropriate medical attention for the child in an emergency.","sortOrder":24},{"sectionNumber":"sec.20","sectionType":"section","heading":"Medical attention— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.20 Medical attention— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that, if a QEC service child is injured or becomes ill, all reasonable steps are taken to provide appropriate medical attention for the child.","sortOrder":25},{"sectionNumber":"sec.21","sectionType":"section","heading":"Notice to parents— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.21 Notice to parents— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that as soon as practicable after a QEC service child is injured or becomes ill, a parent of the child is notified of the injury or illness and any medical attention provided to the child.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.","sortOrder":26},{"sectionNumber":"sec.22","sectionType":"section","heading":"Serious incidents— Act , s 127 (4)","content":"### sec.22 Serious incidents— Act , s 127 (4)\n\nFor section 127 (4) of the Act , the following are prescribed as serious incidents—\nthe death of a child—\nwhile a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child; or\nfollowing an incident while a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child;\nany incident involving serious injury or trauma to, or illness of, a child while a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child—\nwhich a reasonable person would consider required urgent medical attention from a medical practitioner; or\nwhooping cough, broken limb, anaphylaxis reaction\nfor which the child attended, or ought reasonably to have attended, a hospital;\nany incident where the attendance of emergency services at the QEC service premises was sought, or ought reasonably to have been sought;\nany circumstance where a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to a child and the child—\nappears to be missing or can not be accounted for; or\nappears to have been taken or removed from the QEC service premises in a way that contravenes this Act; or\nis mistakenly locked in or locked out of the QEC service premises or any part of the premises.\n- (a) the death of a child— (i) while a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child; or (ii) following an incident while a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child;\n- (i) while a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child; or\n- (ii) following an incident while a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child;\n- (b) any incident involving serious injury or trauma to, or illness of, a child while a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child— (i) which a reasonable person would consider required urgent medical attention from a medical practitioner; or Examples— whooping cough, broken limb, anaphylaxis reaction (ii) for which the child attended, or ought reasonably to have attended, a hospital;\n- (i) which a reasonable person would consider required urgent medical attention from a medical practitioner; or Examples— whooping cough, broken limb, anaphylaxis reaction\n- (ii) for which the child attended, or ought reasonably to have attended, a hospital;\n- (c) any incident where the attendance of emergency services at the QEC service premises was sought, or ought reasonably to have been sought;\n- (d) any circumstance where a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to a child and the child— (i) appears to be missing or can not be accounted for; or (ii) appears to have been taken or removed from the QEC service premises in a way that contravenes this Act; or (iii) is mistakenly locked in or locked out of the QEC service premises or any part of the premises.\n- (i) appears to be missing or can not be accounted for; or\n- (ii) appears to have been taken or removed from the QEC service premises in a way that contravenes this Act; or\n- (iii) is mistakenly locked in or locked out of the QEC service premises or any part of the premises.\n- (i) while a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child; or\n- (ii) following an incident while a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to the child;\n- (i) which a reasonable person would consider required urgent medical attention from a medical practitioner; or Examples— whooping cough, broken limb, anaphylaxis reaction\n- (ii) for which the child attended, or ought reasonably to have attended, a hospital;\n- (i) appears to be missing or can not be accounted for; or\n- (ii) appears to have been taken or removed from the QEC service premises in a way that contravenes this Act; or\n- (iii) is mistakenly locked in or locked out of the QEC service premises or any part of the premises.","sortOrder":27},{"sectionNumber":"sec.23","sectionType":"section","heading":"Record of incident, injury, trauma and illness— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.23 Record of incident, injury, trauma and illness— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must keep a record of an incident that occurs to a child, or any injury, trauma or illness suffered by a child, while the child is provided regulated education and care by the QEC service.","sortOrder":28},{"sectionNumber":"sec.24","sectionType":"section","heading":"Infectious diseases— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.24 Infectious diseases— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThis section applies if there is an occurrence of an infectious disease at a QEC approved service.\nThe Queensland approved provider must ensure that reasonable steps are taken to prevent the spread of the infectious disease at the QEC service.\nMaximum penalty—20 penalty units.\nThe approved provider must ensure that a parent or an authorised emergency contact of each QEC service child is notified of the occurrence as soon as practicable.\nMaximum penalty—20 penalty units.\nIn this section—\nauthorised emergency contact , for a QEC service child, means a person authorised by the parent of the child to collect the child, or respond to an incident involving the child.\n(sec.24-ssec.1) This section applies if there is an occurrence of an infectious disease at a QEC approved service.\n(sec.24-ssec.2) The Queensland approved provider must ensure that reasonable steps are taken to prevent the spread of the infectious disease at the QEC service. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.\n(sec.24-ssec.3) The approved provider must ensure that a parent or an authorised emergency contact of each QEC service child is notified of the occurrence as soon as practicable. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.\n(sec.24-ssec.4) In this section— authorised emergency contact , for a QEC service child, means a person authorised by the parent of the child to collect the child, or respond to an incident involving the child.","sortOrder":29},{"sectionNumber":"sec.25","sectionType":"section","heading":"First aid kits— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.25 First aid kits— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that first aid kits are kept at the QEC service whenever it provides regulated education and care to children.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must keep an appropriate number of first aid kits at the QEC service having regard to the number of QEC service children being provided regulated education and care.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.25-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that first aid kits are kept at the QEC service whenever it provides regulated education and care to children. Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.25-ssec.2) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must keep an appropriate number of first aid kits at the QEC service having regard to the number of QEC service children being provided regulated education and care. Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.","sortOrder":30},{"sectionNumber":"sec.26","sectionType":"section","heading":"Departure of children— Act , s 244 (2) (c)","content":"### sec.26 Departure of children— Act , s 244 (2) (c)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a QEC service child does not leave the QEC service premises other than under subsection (2) .\nMaximum penalty—20 penalty units.\nThe child may only leave the relevant premises if the child—\nis given into the care of—\na parent of the child; or\nan authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record; or\na person authorised by a parent or authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record to collect the child from the premises; or\nleaves the premises in accordance with the written authorisation of the child’s parent or authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record; or\nis taken on an excursion in accordance with this part; or\nis given into the care of a person or taken outside the premises—\nbecause the child requires medical, hospital or ambulance care or treatment; or\nbecause of another emergency.\nIn this section—\nauthorised nominee means a person who has been given permission by a parent or family member to collect the child from an educator of the QEC service.\n(sec.26-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a QEC service child does not leave the QEC service premises other than under subsection (2) . Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.\n(sec.26-ssec.2) The child may only leave the relevant premises if the child— is given into the care of— a parent of the child; or an authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record; or a person authorised by a parent or authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record to collect the child from the premises; or leaves the premises in accordance with the written authorisation of the child’s parent or authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record; or is taken on an excursion in accordance with this part; or is given into the care of a person or taken outside the premises— because the child requires medical, hospital or ambulance care or treatment; or because of another emergency.\n(sec.26-ssec.3) In this section— authorised nominee means a person who has been given permission by a parent or family member to collect the child from an educator of the QEC service.\n- (a) is given into the care of— (i) a parent of the child; or (ii) an authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record; or (iii) a person authorised by a parent or authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record to collect the child from the premises; or\n- (i) a parent of the child; or\n- (ii) an authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record; or\n- (iii) a person authorised by a parent or authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record to collect the child from the premises; or\n- (b) leaves the premises in accordance with the written authorisation of the child’s parent or authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record; or\n- (c) is taken on an excursion in accordance with this part; or\n- (d) is given into the care of a person or taken outside the premises— (i) because the child requires medical, hospital or ambulance care or treatment; or (ii) because of another emergency.\n- (i) because the child requires medical, hospital or ambulance care or treatment; or\n- (ii) because of another emergency.\n- (i) a parent of the child; or\n- (ii) an authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record; or\n- (iii) a person authorised by a parent or authorised nominee named in the child’s enrolment record to collect the child from the premises; or\n- (i) because the child requires medical, hospital or ambulance care or treatment; or\n- (ii) because of another emergency.","sortOrder":31},{"sectionNumber":"pt.4-div.3","sectionType":"division","heading":"Physical environment","content":"## Physical environment","sortOrder":32},{"sectionNumber":"sec.27","sectionType":"section","heading":"Premises, furniture and equipment to be safe, clean and in good repair— Act , s 244 (2) (d) and (e)","content":"### sec.27 Premises, furniture and equipment to be safe, clean and in good repair— Act , s 244 (2) (d) and (e)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service premises and all equipment and furniture used in providing regulated education and care are safe, clean and in good repair.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that each QEC service child has access to sufficient furniture, materials and developmentally appropriate equipment suitable for providing regulated education and care.\n(sec.27-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service premises and all equipment and furniture used in providing regulated education and care are safe, clean and in good repair. Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.27-ssec.2) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that each QEC service child has access to sufficient furniture, materials and developmentally appropriate equipment suitable for providing regulated education and care.","sortOrder":33},{"sectionNumber":"sec.28","sectionType":"section","heading":"Fencing— Act , s 244 (2) (d)","content":"### sec.28 Fencing— Act , s 244 (2) (d)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that any outdoor space used by a child at the QEC service premises is enclosed by a fence or barrier that is of a height and design that a child, other than a school child, can not go through, over or under it.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\nThis section does not apply to a school age care service.\n(sec.28-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that any outdoor space used by a child at the QEC service premises is enclosed by a fence or barrier that is of a height and design that a child, other than a school child, can not go through, over or under it. Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.28-ssec.2) This section does not apply to a school age care service.","sortOrder":34},{"sectionNumber":"sec.29","sectionType":"section","heading":"General requirements for indoor space— Act , s 244 (2) (e)","content":"### sec.29 General requirements for indoor space— Act , s 244 (2) (e)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that, for each QEC service child, the QEC service premises has at least 3.25 square metres of unencumbered indoor space.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\nIn calculating the area of unencumbered indoor space—\nthe following areas are to be excluded—\nany passageway or thoroughfare (including door swings);\nany toilet and hygiene facilities;\nany nappy changing area or area for preparing bottles;\nany area permanently set aside for the use or storage of cots;\nany area permanently set aside for storage;\nany area or room for staff or administration;\nany other space that is not suitable for children; and\nthe area of a kitchen is to be excluded, unless the kitchen is primarily to be used by children as part of an educational program provided by the QEC service.\nThe area of a verandah may be included in calculating the area of indoor space only with the written approval of the chief executive.\nA verandah that is included in calculating the area of outdoor space can not be included in calculating the area of indoor space.\n(sec.29-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that, for each QEC service child, the QEC service premises has at least 3.25 square metres of unencumbered indoor space. Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.29-ssec.2) In calculating the area of unencumbered indoor space— the following areas are to be excluded— any passageway or thoroughfare (including door swings); any toilet and hygiene facilities; any nappy changing area or area for preparing bottles; any area permanently set aside for the use or storage of cots; any area permanently set aside for storage; any area or room for staff or administration; any other space that is not suitable for children; and the area of a kitchen is to be excluded, unless the kitchen is primarily to be used by children as part of an educational program provided by the QEC service.\n(sec.29-ssec.3) The area of a verandah may be included in calculating the area of indoor space only with the written approval of the chief executive.\n(sec.29-ssec.4) A verandah that is included in calculating the area of outdoor space can not be included in calculating the area of indoor space.\n- (a) the following areas are to be excluded— (i) any passageway or thoroughfare (including door swings); (ii) any toilet and hygiene facilities; (iii) any nappy changing area or area for preparing bottles; (iv) any area permanently set aside for the use or storage of cots; (v) any area permanently set aside for storage; (vi) any area or room for staff or administration; (vii) any other space that is not suitable for children; and\n- (i) any passageway or thoroughfare (including door swings);\n- (ii) any toilet and hygiene facilities;\n- (iii) any nappy changing area or area for preparing bottles;\n- (iv) any area permanently set aside for the use or storage of cots;\n- (v) any area permanently set aside for storage;\n- (vi) any area or room for staff or administration;\n- (vii) any other space that is not suitable for children; and\n- (b) the area of a kitchen is to be excluded, unless the kitchen is primarily to be used by children as part of an educational program provided by the QEC service.\n- (i) any passageway or thoroughfare (including door swings);\n- (ii) any toilet and hygiene facilities;\n- (iii) any nappy changing area or area for preparing bottles;\n- (iv) any area permanently set aside for the use or storage of cots;\n- (v) any area permanently set aside for storage;\n- (vi) any area or room for staff or administration;\n- (vii) any other space that is not suitable for children; and","sortOrder":35},{"sectionNumber":"sec.30","sectionType":"section","heading":"Additional requirements for indoor space— Act , s 244 (2) (e)","content":"### sec.30 Additional requirements for indoor space— Act , s 244 (2) (e)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the indoor spaces used by a QEC service child—\nare well ventilated; and\nhave adequate natural light; and\nare maintained at a temperature that ensures the safety and wellbeing of children.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n- (a) are well ventilated; and\n- (b) have adequate natural light; and\n- (c) are maintained at a temperature that ensures the safety and wellbeing of children.","sortOrder":36},{"sectionNumber":"sec.31","sectionType":"section","heading":"Administrative space","content":"### sec.31 Administrative space\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that an adequate area is available at the QEC service premises for—\nconducting the administrative functions of the QEC service; and\nconsulting with parents of children; and\nconducting private conversations.\n- (a) conducting the administrative functions of the QEC service; and\n- (b) consulting with parents of children; and\n- (c) conducting private conversations.","sortOrder":37},{"sectionNumber":"sec.32","sectionType":"section","heading":"General requirements for outdoor space— Act , s 244 (2) (e)","content":"### sec.32 General requirements for outdoor space— Act , s 244 (2) (e)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that, for each QEC service child, the QEC service premises has at least 7 square metres of unencumbered outdoor space.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\nIn calculating the area of unencumbered outdoor space required, the following areas are to be excluded—\nany pathway or thoroughfare, other than where used by children as part of an educational program provided by the QEC service;\nany car parking area;\nany storage shed or other storage area;\nany other space that is not suitable for children.\nA verandah that is included in calculating the area of indoor space can not be included in calculating the area of outdoor space.\nAn area of unencumbered indoor space may be included in calculating the outdoor space of a school age care service if—\nthe chief executive has given written approval; and\nthat indoor space has not been included in calculating the indoor space under section 29 .\n(sec.32-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that, for each QEC service child, the QEC service premises has at least 7 square metres of unencumbered outdoor space. Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.32-ssec.2) In calculating the area of unencumbered outdoor space required, the following areas are to be excluded— any pathway or thoroughfare, other than where used by children as part of an educational program provided by the QEC service; any car parking area; any storage shed or other storage area; any other space that is not suitable for children.\n(sec.32-ssec.3) A verandah that is included in calculating the area of indoor space can not be included in calculating the area of outdoor space.\n(sec.32-ssec.4) An area of unencumbered indoor space may be included in calculating the outdoor space of a school age care service if— the chief executive has given written approval; and that indoor space has not been included in calculating the indoor space under section 29 .\n- (a) any pathway or thoroughfare, other than where used by children as part of an educational program provided by the QEC service;\n- (b) any car parking area;\n- (c) any storage shed or other storage area;\n- (d) any other space that is not suitable for children.\n- (a) the chief executive has given written approval; and\n- (b) that indoor space has not been included in calculating the indoor space under section 29 .","sortOrder":38},{"sectionNumber":"sec.33","sectionType":"section","heading":"Additional requirements for outdoor space— Act , s 244 (2) (e)","content":"### sec.33 Additional requirements for outdoor space— Act , s 244 (2) (e)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the outdoor spaces provided at the QEC service premises allow children to explore and experience the natural environment.\nthe use of natural features such as trees, sand and natural vegetation\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that outdoor spaces provided at the QEC service premises include adequate shaded areas to protect children from overexposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun.\n(sec.33-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the outdoor spaces provided at the QEC service premises allow children to explore and experience the natural environment. the use of natural features such as trees, sand and natural vegetation\n(sec.33-ssec.2) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that outdoor spaces provided at the QEC service premises include adequate shaded areas to protect children from overexposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun.","sortOrder":39},{"sectionNumber":"sec.34","sectionType":"section","heading":"Premises designed to facilitate supervision— Act , s 244 (2) (e)","content":"### sec.34 Premises designed to facilitate supervision— Act , s 244 (2) (e)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service premises are designed and maintained in a way that facilitates supervision of children at all times they are being provided regulated education and care by the QEC service, having regard to the need to maintain the rights and dignity of the children.","sortOrder":40},{"sectionNumber":"sec.35","sectionType":"section","heading":"Laundry and hygiene facilities— Act , s 244 (2) (d) and (e)","content":"### sec.35 Laundry and hygiene facilities— Act , s 244 (2) (d) and (e)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service has—\nlaundry facilities or access to laundry facilities; or\nother arrangements for dealing with soiled clothing, nappies and linen, including hygienic facilities for storage prior to their disposal or laundering.\nThe facilities or arrangements must be adequate and appropriate for the needs of the QEC service.\nThe approved provider of the QEC service must ensure that laundry and hygienic facilities are located and maintained in a way that does not pose a risk to children.\n(sec.35-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service has— laundry facilities or access to laundry facilities; or other arrangements for dealing with soiled clothing, nappies and linen, including hygienic facilities for storage prior to their disposal or laundering.\n(sec.35-ssec.2) The facilities or arrangements must be adequate and appropriate for the needs of the QEC service.\n(sec.35-ssec.3) The approved provider of the QEC service must ensure that laundry and hygienic facilities are located and maintained in a way that does not pose a risk to children.\n- (a) laundry facilities or access to laundry facilities; or\n- (b) other arrangements for dealing with soiled clothing, nappies and linen, including hygienic facilities for storage prior to their disposal or laundering.","sortOrder":41},{"sectionNumber":"sec.36","sectionType":"section","heading":"Toilet and hygiene facilities— Act , s 244 (2) (d) and (e)","content":"### sec.36 Toilet and hygiene facilities— Act , s 244 (2) (d) and (e)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that—\nthere are adequate and appropriate toilet, washing and drying facilities for use by a QEC service child; and\nthe location and design of the toilet, washing and drying facilities enable safe use and convenient access by the child.\n- (a) there are adequate and appropriate toilet, washing and drying facilities for use by a QEC service child; and\n- (b) the location and design of the toilet, washing and drying facilities enable safe use and convenient access by the child.","sortOrder":42},{"sectionNumber":"sec.37","sectionType":"section","heading":"Nappy change facilities— Act , s 244 (2) (d) and (e)","content":"### sec.37 Nappy change facilities— Act , s 244 (2) (d) and (e)\n\nThis section applies if a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care for a child who wears nappies.\nThe Queensland approved provider of the QEC service must ensure that adequate and appropriate hygienic facilities are provided for nappy changing.\nWithout limiting subsection (2) , the approved provider of the QEC service must ensure that the following are provided—\nif any of the QEC service children are under 3 years of age, at least 1 properly constructed nappy changing bench; and\nhand cleansing facilities for adults in the immediate vicinity of the nappy change area.\nMaximum penalty—10 penalty units.\nThe approved provider of the QEC service must ensure that nappy change facilities are designed, located and maintained in a way that prevents unsupervised access by children.\n(sec.37-ssec.1) This section applies if a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care for a child who wears nappies.\n(sec.37-ssec.2) The Queensland approved provider of the QEC service must ensure that adequate and appropriate hygienic facilities are provided for nappy changing.\n(sec.37-ssec.3) Without limiting subsection (2) , the approved provider of the QEC service must ensure that the following are provided— if any of the QEC service children are under 3 years of age, at least 1 properly constructed nappy changing bench; and hand cleansing facilities for adults in the immediate vicinity of the nappy change area. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.\n(sec.37-ssec.4) The approved provider of the QEC service must ensure that nappy change facilities are designed, located and maintained in a way that prevents unsupervised access by children.\n- (a) if any of the QEC service children are under 3 years of age, at least 1 properly constructed nappy changing bench; and\n- (b) hand cleansing facilities for adults in the immediate vicinity of the nappy change area.","sortOrder":43},{"sectionNumber":"sec.38","sectionType":"section","heading":"Telephone or other communication equipment— Act , s 244 (2) (d)","content":"### sec.38 Telephone or other communication equipment— Act , s 244 (2) (d)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that, when providing regulated education and care, the staff members of, or volunteers at, the QEC service have ready access to an operating telephone or other similar means of communication to enable immediate communication to and from parents and emergency services.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.","sortOrder":44},{"sectionNumber":"pt.4-div.4","sectionType":"division","heading":"Staffing arrangements","content":"## Staffing arrangements","sortOrder":45},{"sectionNumber":"sec.39","sectionType":"section","heading":"Qualifications for QEC approved services other than school age care services— Act , s 244 (2) (f)","content":"### sec.39 Qualifications for QEC approved services other than school age care services— Act , s 244 (2) (f)\n\nThis section applies to a QEC approved service, other than a school age care service.\nWhen the QEC service provides regulated education and care to a QEC service child—\nat least 50% of the educators who are required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios for the service must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, an approved diploma level education and care qualification; and\nall other educators who are required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios for the QEC service must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, at least an approved certificate III level education and care qualification.\n(sec.39-ssec.1) This section applies to a QEC approved service, other than a school age care service.\n(sec.39-ssec.2) When the QEC service provides regulated education and care to a QEC service child— at least 50% of the educators who are required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios for the service must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, an approved diploma level education and care qualification; and all other educators who are required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios for the QEC service must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, at least an approved certificate III level education and care qualification.\n- (a) at least 50% of the educators who are required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios for the service must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, an approved diploma level education and care qualification; and\n- (b) all other educators who are required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios for the QEC service must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, at least an approved certificate III level education and care qualification.","sortOrder":46},{"sectionNumber":"sec.40","sectionType":"section","heading":"Qualifications for QEC approved services for school age care services— Act , s 244 (2) (f)","content":"### sec.40 Qualifications for QEC approved services for school age care services— Act , s 244 (2) (f)\n\nThis section applies to a QEC approved service that is a school age care service.\nWhen the QEC service provides regulated education and care to a QEC service child—\nat least 1 educator who is required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios for the service must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, an approved diploma level education and care qualification; and\nat least 1 staff member for each 30 children being provided regulated education and care must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, either an approved diploma level education and care qualification or an approved certificate III level education and care qualification.\nTo avoid any doubt, it is declared that for a QEC service that provides regulated education and care for no more than 30 children, 1 educator may satisfy the requirement of subsection (2) (a) and (b) .\n(sec.40-ssec.1) This section applies to a QEC approved service that is a school age care service.\n(sec.40-ssec.2) When the QEC service provides regulated education and care to a QEC service child— at least 1 educator who is required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios for the service must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, an approved diploma level education and care qualification; and at least 1 staff member for each 30 children being provided regulated education and care must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, either an approved diploma level education and care qualification or an approved certificate III level education and care qualification.\n(sec.40-ssec.3) To avoid any doubt, it is declared that for a QEC service that provides regulated education and care for no more than 30 children, 1 educator may satisfy the requirement of subsection (2) (a) and (b) .\n- (a) at least 1 educator who is required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios for the service must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, an approved diploma level education and care qualification; and\n- (b) at least 1 staff member for each 30 children being provided regulated education and care must hold, or be actively working towards a qualification for, either an approved diploma level education and care qualification or an approved certificate III level education and care qualification.","sortOrder":47},{"sectionNumber":"sec.41","sectionType":"section","heading":"Prescribed circumstances for certain unqualified persons— Act s 117 (1)","content":"### sec.41 Prescribed circumstances for certain unqualified persons— Act s 117 (1)\n\nA person engaged as an educator for a QEC approved service may be included as a person who holds an approved certificate III level education and care qualification if the person has not been engaged as an educator for more than 3 months in the QEC service.\nA person who is appointed as a supervisor for a school age care service may be included as a person who holds an approved diploma level education and care qualification if the person has not been engaged as a supervisor for more than 6 months in the QEC approved service.\nA person may be included as a person who holds an approved certificate III level education and care qualification for a QEC approved service if—\nthe QEC service has approval to provide regulated education and care for not more than 30 children; and\nan educator with an approved diploma level education and care qualification and another educator with an approved certificate III level education and care qualification are also present.\ns 41 amd 2025 SL No. 159 s 4\n(sec.41-ssec.1) A person engaged as an educator for a QEC approved service may be included as a person who holds an approved certificate III level education and care qualification if the person has not been engaged as an educator for more than 3 months in the QEC service.\n(sec.41-ssec.2) A person who is appointed as a supervisor for a school age care service may be included as a person who holds an approved diploma level education and care qualification if the person has not been engaged as a supervisor for more than 6 months in the QEC approved service.\n(sec.41-ssec.3) A person may be included as a person who holds an approved certificate III level education and care qualification for a QEC approved service if— the QEC service has approval to provide regulated education and care for not more than 30 children; and an educator with an approved diploma level education and care qualification and another educator with an approved certificate III level education and care qualification are also present.\n- (a) the QEC service has approval to provide regulated education and care for not more than 30 children; and\n- (b) an educator with an approved diploma level education and care qualification and another educator with an approved certificate III level education and care qualification are also present.","sortOrder":48},{"sectionNumber":"sec.42","sectionType":"section","heading":"First aid qualifications— Act , s 244 (2) (f)","content":"### sec.42 First aid qualifications— Act , s 244 (2) (f)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the following persons are in attendance at any place a QEC service child is and immediately available in an emergency at all times the QEC service provides regulated education and care to the child—\nat least 1 educator who holds a current approved first aid qualification;\nat least 1 educator who has undertaken current approved anaphylaxis management training;\nat least 1 educator who has undertaken current approved emergency asthma management training.\nMaximum penalty—20 penalty units.\nIn this section—\napproved anaphylaxis management training see the Education and Care Services National Regulations , section 136 (5) .\napproved emergency asthma management see the Education and Care Services National Regulations , section 136 (5) .\napproved first aid qualification see the Education and Care Services National Regulations , section 136 (5) .\n(sec.42-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the following persons are in attendance at any place a QEC service child is and immediately available in an emergency at all times the QEC service provides regulated education and care to the child— at least 1 educator who holds a current approved first aid qualification; at least 1 educator who has undertaken current approved anaphylaxis management training; at least 1 educator who has undertaken current approved emergency asthma management training. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.\n(sec.42-ssec.2) In this section— approved anaphylaxis management training see the Education and Care Services National Regulations , section 136 (5) . approved emergency asthma management see the Education and Care Services National Regulations , section 136 (5) . approved first aid qualification see the Education and Care Services National Regulations , section 136 (5) .\n- (a) at least 1 educator who holds a current approved first aid qualification;\n- (b) at least 1 educator who has undertaken current approved anaphylaxis management training;\n- (c) at least 1 educator who has undertaken current approved emergency asthma management training.","sortOrder":49},{"sectionNumber":"sec.43","sectionType":"section","heading":"Supervisors— Act , sch 2 , def supervisor","content":"### sec.43 Supervisors— Act , sch 2 , def supervisor\n\nFor schedule 2 of the Act , definition supervisor the prescribed qualification is a qualification that is, or is equivalent to, an approved diploma level education and care qualification.","sortOrder":50},{"sectionNumber":"sec.44","sectionType":"section","heading":"Supervisor’s prescribed times— Act , s 113 (4)","content":"### sec.44 Supervisor’s prescribed times— Act , s 113 (4)\n\nIf a QEC approved service’s normal operating hours for a day are 10 hours or less, a supervisor must be present at the QEC service—\nfor at least 75% of the QEC service’s normal operating hours for that day; and\nso far as possible, for most of the QEC service’s peak period for that day.\nIf a QEC approved service’s normal operating hours for a day are more than 10 hours, a supervisor must be present at the QEC service—\nfor at least 7.5 hours on that day; and\nso far as possible, for most of the QEC service’s peak period for that day.\nIn this section—\npeak period , for a day at a QEC service, is the part of the day for which, ordinarily, the number of children being provided regulated education and care at the QEC service is at its highest level.\n(sec.44-ssec.1) If a QEC approved service’s normal operating hours for a day are 10 hours or less, a supervisor must be present at the QEC service— for at least 75% of the QEC service’s normal operating hours for that day; and so far as possible, for most of the QEC service’s peak period for that day.\n(sec.44-ssec.2) If a QEC approved service’s normal operating hours for a day are more than 10 hours, a supervisor must be present at the QEC service— for at least 7.5 hours on that day; and so far as possible, for most of the QEC service’s peak period for that day.\n(sec.44-ssec.3) In this section— peak period , for a day at a QEC service, is the part of the day for which, ordinarily, the number of children being provided regulated education and care at the QEC service is at its highest level.\n- (a) for at least 75% of the QEC service’s normal operating hours for that day; and\n- (b) so far as possible, for most of the QEC service’s peak period for that day.\n- (a) for at least 7.5 hours on that day; and\n- (b) so far as possible, for most of the QEC service’s peak period for that day.","sortOrder":51},{"sectionNumber":"sec.45","sectionType":"section","heading":"Educators under 18 years to be supervised— Act , s 244 (2) (f)","content":"### sec.45 Educators under 18 years to be supervised— Act , s 244 (2) (f)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider must ensure that any educator at the QEC approved service who is under 18 years—\ndoes not work alone at the service; and\nis adequately supervised at all times by an educator who is 18 years or more.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n- (a) does not work alone at the service; and\n- (b) is adequately supervised at all times by an educator who is 18 years or more.","sortOrder":52},{"sectionNumber":"sec.46","sectionType":"section","heading":null,"content":"### Section sec.46\n\ns 46 om 2025 SL No. 159 s 5","sortOrder":53},{"sectionNumber":"sec.47","sectionType":"section","heading":null,"content":"### Section sec.47\n\ns 47 om 2025 SL No. 159 s 5","sortOrder":54},{"sectionNumber":"sec.48","sectionType":"section","heading":null,"content":"### Section sec.48\n\ns 48 om 2025 SL No. 159 s 5","sortOrder":55},{"sectionNumber":"sec.49","sectionType":"section","heading":"Prescribed qualifications, experience and other characteristics— Act , s 113 (4) (b)","content":"### sec.49 Prescribed qualifications, experience and other characteristics— Act , s 113 (4) (b)\n\nFor section 113 (4) (b) of the Act , the adult holds, or is actively working towards a qualification for, an approved diploma level education and care qualification.","sortOrder":56},{"sectionNumber":"sec.50","sectionType":"section","heading":"Educators must be working directly with children to be included in ratios— Act , s 244 (2) (f)","content":"### sec.50 Educators must be working directly with children to be included in ratios— Act , s 244 (2) (f)\n\nAn educator can not be included in calculating an educator to child ratio of a QEC approved service unless the educator is working directly with QEC service children.","sortOrder":57},{"sectionNumber":"sec.51","sectionType":"section","heading":"Rest pauses","content":"### sec.51 Rest pauses\n\nThis section applies to an educator who is working directly with QEC service children.\nDespite section 50 , the educator is taken to be continuing to work directly with QEC service children while he or she is absent on a rest pause if—\nthe rest pause is not more than 10 minutes; and\nthe educator has not already been absent on 2 rest pauses on that day; and\nthere is an educator present at the QEC service who is—\nnot working directly with children; and\nable to attend with the QEC service children immediately if required; and\nThe educator may be the educator who is absent on the rest pause.\nonly 1 educator required to meet the educator to child ratio for the QEC service is absent on the rest pause.\nIn this section—\nrest pause means a break from the duties of an educator’s employment under an entitlement in the employment conditions.\ns 51 amd 2025 SL No. 159 s 6\n(sec.51-ssec.1) This section applies to an educator who is working directly with QEC service children.\n(sec.51-ssec.2) Despite section 50 , the educator is taken to be continuing to work directly with QEC service children while he or she is absent on a rest pause if— the rest pause is not more than 10 minutes; and the educator has not already been absent on 2 rest pauses on that day; and there is an educator present at the QEC service who is— not working directly with children; and able to attend with the QEC service children immediately if required; and The educator may be the educator who is absent on the rest pause. only 1 educator required to meet the educator to child ratio for the QEC service is absent on the rest pause.\n(sec.51-ssec.3) In this section— rest pause means a break from the duties of an educator’s employment under an entitlement in the employment conditions.\n- (a) the rest pause is not more than 10 minutes; and\n- (b) the educator has not already been absent on 2 rest pauses on that day; and\n- (c) there is an educator present at the QEC service who is— (i) not working directly with children; and (ii) able to attend with the QEC service children immediately if required; and Note— The educator may be the educator who is absent on the rest pause.\n- (i) not working directly with children; and\n- (ii) able to attend with the QEC service children immediately if required; and Note— The educator may be the educator who is absent on the rest pause.\n- (d) only 1 educator required to meet the educator to child ratio for the QEC service is absent on the rest pause.\n- (i) not working directly with children; and\n- (ii) able to attend with the QEC service children immediately if required; and Note— The educator may be the educator who is absent on the rest pause.","sortOrder":58},{"sectionNumber":"sec.52","sectionType":"section","heading":"Other temporary absences","content":"### sec.52 Other temporary absences\n\nThis section applies to an educator who is working directly with QEC service children.\nDespite section 50 , the educator is taken to be continuing to work with the QEC service children while he or she is temporarily absent, other than on a rest pause, if—\nthe absence is not more than 5 minutes; and\nno other educators required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios are absent at the same time.\n(sec.52-ssec.1) This section applies to an educator who is working directly with QEC service children.\n(sec.52-ssec.2) Despite section 50 , the educator is taken to be continuing to work with the QEC service children while he or she is temporarily absent, other than on a rest pause, if— the absence is not more than 5 minutes; and no other educators required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios are absent at the same time.\n- (a) the absence is not more than 5 minutes; and\n- (b) no other educators required to meet the relevant educator to child ratios are absent at the same time.","sortOrder":59},{"sectionNumber":"sec.53","sectionType":"section","heading":"Educator to child ratios— Act , s 244 (2) (f)","content":"### sec.53 Educator to child ratios— Act , s 244 (2) (f)\n\nA Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that for an age range of QEC service children stated in column 1 of schedule 3 , the number of children that the educator provides regulated education and care for is not more than the number calculated in accordance with the ratio stated in column 2 of schedule 3 .\nHowever, this section does not apply to the approved provider of a QEC approved service mentioned in section 54 (1) if the number of educators for the QEC service calculated under section 54 is less than the number of educators calculated under this section.\ns 53 amd 2025 SL No. 159 s 7\n(sec.53-ssec.1) A Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that for an age range of QEC service children stated in column 1 of schedule 3 , the number of children that the educator provides regulated education and care for is not more than the number calculated in accordance with the ratio stated in column 2 of schedule 3 .\n(sec.53-ssec.2) However, this section does not apply to the approved provider of a QEC approved service mentioned in section 54 (1) if the number of educators for the QEC service calculated under section 54 is less than the number of educators calculated under this section.","sortOrder":60},{"sectionNumber":"sec.54","sectionType":"section","heading":"Educator to child ratios for groups of children— Act , s 244 (2) (f)","content":"### sec.54 Educator to child ratios for groups of children— Act , s 244 (2) (f)\n\nThis section applies if—\na Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to children in a group of not more than 21 children; and\nthere are no more than 4 children aged from birth to 1 year of age in the group; and\nthere are no more than 2 children aged from birth to 1 year of age for each educator; and\nif the QEC service has an approved capacity for more than 30 children, the QEC service provides regulated education and care for no more than 10 children from birth to 2 years of age.\nThe approved provider of the QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service has a minimum number of 1 educator for every 7 children in the group.\n(sec.54-ssec.1) This section applies if— a Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to children in a group of not more than 21 children; and there are no more than 4 children aged from birth to 1 year of age in the group; and there are no more than 2 children aged from birth to 1 year of age for each educator; and if the QEC service has an approved capacity for more than 30 children, the QEC service provides regulated education and care for no more than 10 children from birth to 2 years of age.\n(sec.54-ssec.2) The approved provider of the QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service has a minimum number of 1 educator for every 7 children in the group.\n- (a) a Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service provides regulated education and care to children in a group of not more than 21 children; and\n- (b) there are no more than 4 children aged from birth to 1 year of age in the group; and\n- (c) there are no more than 2 children aged from birth to 1 year of age for each educator; and\n- (d) if the QEC service has an approved capacity for more than 30 children, the QEC service provides regulated education and care for no more than 10 children from birth to 2 years of age.","sortOrder":61},{"sectionNumber":"sec.55","sectionType":"section","heading":"Excursions risk assessments","content":"### sec.55 Excursions risk assessments\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure a risk assessment is carried out under this section before an authorisation is sought under section 56 for an excursion.\nMaximum penalty—10 penalty units.\nA risk assessment is not required under this section for an excursion if—\nthe excursion is a regular outing; and\na risk assessment has been conducted for the excursion.\nA risk assessment for an excursion must—\nidentify and assess risks that the excursion may pose to the safety, health or wellbeing of any child being taken on the excursion; and\nspecify how the identified risks will be managed and minimised.\nWithout limiting subsection (3) , a risk assessment must consider—\nthe proposed route and destination for the excursion; and\nany water hazards; and\nany risks associated with water-based activities; and\nthe transport to and from the proposed destination for the excursion; and\nthe number of adults and children involved in the excursion; and\ngiven the risks posed by the excursion, the number of educators or other responsible adults that is appropriate to provide supervision and whether any adults with specialised skills are required; and\nSpecialised skills could include life-saving skills.\nthe proposed activities; and\nthe proposed duration of the excursion; and\nthe items that should be taken on the excursion.\na mobile phone and a list of emergency contact numbers for children on the excursion\n(sec.55-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure a risk assessment is carried out under this section before an authorisation is sought under section 56 for an excursion. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.\n(sec.55-ssec.2) A risk assessment is not required under this section for an excursion if— the excursion is a regular outing; and a risk assessment has been conducted for the excursion.\n(sec.55-ssec.3) A risk assessment for an excursion must— identify and assess risks that the excursion may pose to the safety, health or wellbeing of any child being taken on the excursion; and specify how the identified risks will be managed and minimised.\n(sec.55-ssec.4) Without limiting subsection (3) , a risk assessment must consider— the proposed route and destination for the excursion; and any water hazards; and any risks associated with water-based activities; and the transport to and from the proposed destination for the excursion; and the number of adults and children involved in the excursion; and given the risks posed by the excursion, the number of educators or other responsible adults that is appropriate to provide supervision and whether any adults with specialised skills are required; and Specialised skills could include life-saving skills. the proposed activities; and the proposed duration of the excursion; and the items that should be taken on the excursion. a mobile phone and a list of emergency contact numbers for children on the excursion\n- (a) the excursion is a regular outing; and\n- (b) a risk assessment has been conducted for the excursion.\n- (a) identify and assess risks that the excursion may pose to the safety, health or wellbeing of any child being taken on the excursion; and\n- (b) specify how the identified risks will be managed and minimised.\n- (a) the proposed route and destination for the excursion; and\n- (b) any water hazards; and\n- (c) any risks associated with water-based activities; and\n- (d) the transport to and from the proposed destination for the excursion; and\n- (e) the number of adults and children involved in the excursion; and\n- (f) given the risks posed by the excursion, the number of educators or other responsible adults that is appropriate to provide supervision and whether any adults with specialised skills are required; and Example— Specialised skills could include life-saving skills.\n- (g) the proposed activities; and\n- (h) the proposed duration of the excursion; and\n- (i) the items that should be taken on the excursion. Example— a mobile phone and a list of emergency contact numbers for children on the excursion","sortOrder":62},{"sectionNumber":"sec.56","sectionType":"section","heading":"Authorisation for excursions","content":"### sec.56 Authorisation for excursions\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a QEC service child is not taken outside the QEC service premises on an excursion unless written authorisation has been provided under this section.\nMaximum penalty—10 penalty units.\nThe authorisation must be given by a parent or other person named in the child’s enrolment record as having authority to authorise the taking of the child outside the QEC service premises by an educator and must state—\nthe child’s name; and\nthe reason the child is to be taken outside the premises; and\nthe date the child is to be taken on the excursion (unless the authorisation is for a regular outing); and\na description of the proposed destination for the excursion; and\nthe method of transport to be used for the excursion; and\nthe proposed activities to be undertaken by the child during the excursion; and\nthe period the child will be away from the premises; and\nthe anticipated number of children likely to be attending the excursion; and\nthe anticipated ratio of educators attending the excursion to the anticipated number of children attending the excursion; and\nthe anticipated number of staff members and any other adults who will accompany and supervise the children on the excursion; and\nthat a risk assessment has been prepared and is available at the QEC service.\nIf the excursion is a regular outing, the authorisation is only required to be obtained once in a 1-year period.\n(sec.56-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a QEC service child is not taken outside the QEC service premises on an excursion unless written authorisation has been provided under this section. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.\n(sec.56-ssec.2) The authorisation must be given by a parent or other person named in the child’s enrolment record as having authority to authorise the taking of the child outside the QEC service premises by an educator and must state— the child’s name; and the reason the child is to be taken outside the premises; and the date the child is to be taken on the excursion (unless the authorisation is for a regular outing); and a description of the proposed destination for the excursion; and the method of transport to be used for the excursion; and the proposed activities to be undertaken by the child during the excursion; and the period the child will be away from the premises; and the anticipated number of children likely to be attending the excursion; and the anticipated ratio of educators attending the excursion to the anticipated number of children attending the excursion; and the anticipated number of staff members and any other adults who will accompany and supervise the children on the excursion; and that a risk assessment has been prepared and is available at the QEC service.\n(sec.56-ssec.3) If the excursion is a regular outing, the authorisation is only required to be obtained once in a 1-year period.\n- (a) the child’s name; and\n- (b) the reason the child is to be taken outside the premises; and\n- (c) the date the child is to be taken on the excursion (unless the authorisation is for a regular outing); and\n- (d) a description of the proposed destination for the excursion; and\n- (e) the method of transport to be used for the excursion; and\n- (f) the proposed activities to be undertaken by the child during the excursion; and\n- (g) the period the child will be away from the premises; and\n- (h) the anticipated number of children likely to be attending the excursion; and\n- (i) the anticipated ratio of educators attending the excursion to the anticipated number of children attending the excursion; and\n- (j) the anticipated number of staff members and any other adults who will accompany and supervise the children on the excursion; and\n- (k) that a risk assessment has been prepared and is available at the QEC service.","sortOrder":63},{"sectionNumber":"pt.4-div.5","sectionType":"division","heading":"Relationships and interactions with children","content":"## Relationships and interactions with children","sortOrder":64},{"sectionNumber":"sec.57","sectionType":"section","heading":"Interactions with QEC service children— Act , s 244 (2) (g)","content":"### sec.57 Interactions with QEC service children— Act , s 244 (2) (g)\n\nA Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service provides regulated education and care to QEC service children in a way that—\nencourages each child to express themselves and their opinions; and\nallows each child to undertake experiences that develop self-reliance and self-esteem; and\nmaintains at all times the dignity and rights of each child; and\ngives each child positive guidance and encouragement toward acceptable behaviour; and\nhas regard to the family and cultural values, age, and physical and intellectual development and abilities of each child being educated and cared for by the service.\n- (a) encourages each child to express themselves and their opinions; and\n- (b) allows each child to undertake experiences that develop self-reliance and self-esteem; and\n- (c) maintains at all times the dignity and rights of each child; and\n- (d) gives each child positive guidance and encouragement toward acceptable behaviour; and\n- (e) has regard to the family and cultural values, age, and physical and intellectual development and abilities of each child being educated and cared for by the service.","sortOrder":65},{"sectionNumber":"sec.58","sectionType":"section","heading":"Relationships in groups— Act , s 244 (2) (g)","content":"### sec.58 Relationships in groups— Act , s 244 (2) (g)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service provides QEC service children with opportunities to interact and develop respectful and positive relationships with each other and with staff members of, and volunteers at, the QEC service.\nFor this section, the approved provider must have regard to the size and the composition of the groups in which QEC service children are being provided regulated education and care.\n(sec.58-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service provides QEC service children with opportunities to interact and develop respectful and positive relationships with each other and with staff members of, and volunteers at, the QEC service.\n(sec.58-ssec.2) For this section, the approved provider must have regard to the size and the composition of the groups in which QEC service children are being provided regulated education and care.","sortOrder":66},{"sectionNumber":"sec.59","sectionType":"section","heading":"Access for parents— Act , s 244 (2) (g)","content":"### sec.59 Access for parents— Act , s 244 (2) (g)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a parent of a QEC service child may enter the QEC service premises at any time that the child is being provided regulated education and care by the QEC service.\nMaximum penalty—10 penalty units.\nSubsection (1) does not apply to the extent that compliance would—\npose a risk to the safety of the children and staff of the QEC service; or\nconflict with a provision of the Act ; or\nallow access in contravention of an order of a court or tribunal.\n(sec.59-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a parent of a QEC service child may enter the QEC service premises at any time that the child is being provided regulated education and care by the QEC service. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.\n(sec.59-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply to the extent that compliance would— pose a risk to the safety of the children and staff of the QEC service; or conflict with a provision of the Act ; or allow access in contravention of an order of a court or tribunal.\n- (a) pose a risk to the safety of the children and staff of the QEC service; or\n- (b) conflict with a provision of the Act ; or\n- (c) allow access in contravention of an order of a court or tribunal.","sortOrder":67},{"sectionNumber":"pt.5","sectionType":"part","heading":"Stand-alone services","content":"# Stand-alone services","sortOrder":68},{"sectionNumber":"sec.60","sectionType":"section","heading":"Prescribed insurance— Act , s 135","content":"### sec.60 Prescribed insurance— Act , s 135\n\nFor section 135 of the Act , the insurance cover is public liability insurance for an amount of at least $10m.","sortOrder":69},{"sectionNumber":"pt.6","sectionType":"part","heading":"Information, records and privacy","content":"# Information, records and privacy","sortOrder":70},{"sectionNumber":"sec.61","sectionType":"section","heading":"Children’s attendance record— Act , s 244 (2) (i)","content":"### sec.61 Children’s attendance record— Act , s 244 (2) (i)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that a record of attendance is kept for the QEC service that—\nrecords the full name of each child attending the QEC service; and\nrecords the date and time each child arrives and departs; and\nis signed by 1 of the following persons at the time that the child arrives and departs—\nthe person who delivers the child to the QEC service premises or collects the child from the QEC service premises;\nthe supervisor or educator.\n- (a) records the full name of each child attending the QEC service; and\n- (b) records the date and time each child arrives and departs; and\n- (c) is signed by 1 of the following persons at the time that the child arrives and departs— (i) the person who delivers the child to the QEC service premises or collects the child from the QEC service premises; (ii) the supervisor or educator.\n- (i) the person who delivers the child to the QEC service premises or collects the child from the QEC service premises;\n- (ii) the supervisor or educator.\n- (i) the person who delivers the child to the QEC service premises or collects the child from the QEC service premises;\n- (ii) the supervisor or educator.","sortOrder":71},{"sectionNumber":"sec.62","sectionType":"section","heading":"Child enrolment records— Act , s 244 (2) (i)","content":"### sec.62 Child enrolment records— Act , s 244 (2) (i)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that an enrolment record is kept that includes the information set out in subsection (2) for each QEC service child.\nAn enrolment record must include the following information for each child—\nthe full name, date of birth and address of the child;\nthe name, address and contact details of—\neach known parent of the child; and\nany person who is an authorised emergency contact under section 24 ; and\nany person who is an authorised nominee under section 26 ; and\nany person who is authorised to consent to medical treatment of, or to authorise administration of medication to, the child; and\nany person who is authorised to authorise an educator to take the child outside the QEC service premises;\ndetails of any court orders, parenting orders or parenting plans provided to the approved provider relating to powers, duties, responsibilities or authorities of any person in relation to the child or access to the child;\ndetails of any other court orders provided to the approved provider relating to the child’s residence or the child’s contact with a parent or other person;\nthe gender of the child;\nthe language used in the child’s home;\nthe cultural background of the child and, if applicable, the child’s parents;\nany special considerations for the child, for example any cultural, religious or dietary requirements or additional needs;\nthe relevant authorisations set out in section 63 ;\nthe relevant health information set out section 64 .\nIn this section—\nparenting order means a parenting order within the meaning of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cwlth) , section 64B (1) .\nparenting plan means a parenting plan within the meaning of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cwlth) , section 63C (1) and includes a registered parenting plan within the meaning of section 63C (6) of that Act.\n(sec.62-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that an enrolment record is kept that includes the information set out in subsection (2) for each QEC service child.\n(sec.62-ssec.2) An enrolment record must include the following information for each child— the full name, date of birth and address of the child; the name, address and contact details of— each known parent of the child; and any person who is an authorised emergency contact under section 24 ; and any person who is an authorised nominee under section 26 ; and any person who is authorised to consent to medical treatment of, or to authorise administration of medication to, the child; and any person who is authorised to authorise an educator to take the child outside the QEC service premises; details of any court orders, parenting orders or parenting plans provided to the approved provider relating to powers, duties, responsibilities or authorities of any person in relation to the child or access to the child; details of any other court orders provided to the approved provider relating to the child’s residence or the child’s contact with a parent or other person; the gender of the child; the language used in the child’s home; the cultural background of the child and, if applicable, the child’s parents; any special considerations for the child, for example any cultural, religious or dietary requirements or additional needs; the relevant authorisations set out in section 63 ; the relevant health information set out section 64 .\n(sec.62-ssec.3) In this section— parenting order means a parenting order within the meaning of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cwlth) , section 64B (1) . parenting plan means a parenting plan within the meaning of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cwlth) , section 63C (1) and includes a registered parenting plan within the meaning of section 63C (6) of that Act.\n- (a) the full name, date of birth and address of the child;\n- (b) the name, address and contact details of— (i) each known parent of the child; and (ii) any person who is an authorised emergency contact under section 24 ; and (iii) any person who is an authorised nominee under section 26 ; and (iv) any person who is authorised to consent to medical treatment of, or to authorise administration of medication to, the child; and (v) any person who is authorised to authorise an educator to take the child outside the QEC service premises;\n- (i) each known parent of the child; and\n- (ii) any person who is an authorised emergency contact under section 24 ; and\n- (iii) any person who is an authorised nominee under section 26 ; and\n- (iv) any person who is authorised to consent to medical treatment of, or to authorise administration of medication to, the child; and\n- (v) any person who is authorised to authorise an educator to take the child outside the QEC service premises;\n- (c) details of any court orders, parenting orders or parenting plans provided to the approved provider relating to powers, duties, responsibilities or authorities of any person in relation to the child or access to the child;\n- (d) details of any other court orders provided to the approved provider relating to the child’s residence or the child’s contact with a parent or other person;\n- (e) the gender of the child;\n- (f) the language used in the child’s home;\n- (g) the cultural background of the child and, if applicable, the child’s parents;\n- (h) any special considerations for the child, for example any cultural, religious or dietary requirements or additional needs;\n- (i) the relevant authorisations set out in section 63 ;\n- (j) the relevant health information set out section 64 .\n- (i) each known parent of the child; and\n- (ii) any person who is an authorised emergency contact under section 24 ; and\n- (iii) any person who is an authorised nominee under section 26 ; and\n- (iv) any person who is authorised to consent to medical treatment of, or to authorise administration of medication to, the child; and\n- (v) any person who is authorised to authorise an educator to take the child outside the QEC service premises;","sortOrder":72},{"sectionNumber":"sec.63","sectionType":"section","heading":"Authorisations to be kept in enrolment record— Act , s 244 (2) (i)","content":"### sec.63 Authorisations to be kept in enrolment record— Act , s 244 (2) (i)\n\nThe authorisations to be kept in the enrolment record for each QEC service child are—\nan authorisation, signed by a parent or a person named in the enrolment record as authorised to consent to the medical treatment of the child, for the approved provider, supervisor or an educator to seek—\nmedical treatment for the child from a registered medical practitioner, hospital or ambulance service; and\ntransportation of the child by an ambulance service; and\nif relevant, an authorisation given under section 56 for the QEC service to take the child on regular outings.\n- (a) an authorisation, signed by a parent or a person named in the enrolment record as authorised to consent to the medical treatment of the child, for the approved provider, supervisor or an educator to seek— (i) medical treatment for the child from a registered medical practitioner, hospital or ambulance service; and (ii) transportation of the child by an ambulance service; and\n- (i) medical treatment for the child from a registered medical practitioner, hospital or ambulance service; and\n- (ii) transportation of the child by an ambulance service; and\n- (b) if relevant, an authorisation given under section 56 for the QEC service to take the child on regular outings.\n- (i) medical treatment for the child from a registered medical practitioner, hospital or ambulance service; and\n- (ii) transportation of the child by an ambulance service; and","sortOrder":73},{"sectionNumber":"sec.64","sectionType":"section","heading":"Health information to be kept in enrolment record— Act , s 244 (2) (i)","content":"### sec.64 Health information to be kept in enrolment record— Act , s 244 (2) (i)\n\nThe health information to be kept in the enrolment record for each QEC service child is—\nthe name, address and telephone number of the child’s registered medical practitioner or medical service; and\nif available, the child’s Medicare number; and\ndetails of any—\nspecific healthcare needs of the child, including any medical condition; and\nallergies, including whether the child has been diagnosed as at risk of anaphylaxis; and\nany medical management plan, anaphylaxis medical management plan or risk minimisation plan to be followed with respect to a specific healthcare need, medical condition or allergy referred to in paragraph (c) ; and\ndetails of any dietary restrictions for the child; and\nthe immunisation status of the child; and\nif the approved provider or a staff member has sighted a child health record for the child, a notation to that effect.\n- (a) the name, address and telephone number of the child’s registered medical practitioner or medical service; and\n- (b) if available, the child’s Medicare number; and\n- (c) details of any— (i) specific healthcare needs of the child, including any medical condition; and (ii) allergies, including whether the child has been diagnosed as at risk of anaphylaxis; and\n- (i) specific healthcare needs of the child, including any medical condition; and\n- (ii) allergies, including whether the child has been diagnosed as at risk of anaphylaxis; and\n- (d) any medical management plan, anaphylaxis medical management plan or risk minimisation plan to be followed with respect to a specific healthcare need, medical condition or allergy referred to in paragraph (c) ; and\n- (e) details of any dietary restrictions for the child; and\n- (f) the immunisation status of the child; and\n- (g) if the approved provider or a staff member has sighted a child health record for the child, a notation to that effect.\n- (i) specific healthcare needs of the child, including any medical condition; and\n- (ii) allergies, including whether the child has been diagnosed as at risk of anaphylaxis; and","sortOrder":74},{"sectionNumber":"sec.65","sectionType":"section","heading":"QEC approved services must have policies and procedures— Act , s 244 (2) (i)","content":"### sec.65 QEC approved services must have policies and procedures— Act , s 244 (2) (i)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service has in place policies and procedures in relation to the matters set out in subsection (2) .\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\nPolicies and procedures are required in relation to the following—\nhealth and safety, including matters relating to—\nnutrition, food and beverages and dietary requirements; and\nsun protection; and\nwater safety, including safety during any water-based activities; and\nthe administration of first aid;\nincident, injury, trauma and illness procedures complying with section 23 ;\ndealing with infectious diseases, including procedures complying with section 24 ;\ndealing with medical conditions in children;\nemergency and evacuation;\ndelivery of QEC service children to, and collection of QEC service children from, QEC service premises, including procedures complying with section 26 ;\nexcursions, including procedures complying with sections 55 and 56 ;\nproviding a child safe environment;\nstaffing, including—\na code of conduct for staff members and volunteers; and\ndetermining the responsible person present at the service; and\nthe participation of volunteers and students on practicum placements;\ninteractions with QEC service children, including the matters set out in section 57 ;\nenrolment and orientation;\ngovernance and management of the service, including confidentiality of records;\nthe acceptance and refusal of authorisations;\npayment of fees and provision of a statement of fees charged by the QEC service;\ndealing with complaints.\n(sec.65-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the QEC service has in place policies and procedures in relation to the matters set out in subsection (2) . Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.65-ssec.2) Policies and procedures are required in relation to the following— health and safety, including matters relating to— nutrition, food and beverages and dietary requirements; and sun protection; and water safety, including safety during any water-based activities; and the administration of first aid; incident, injury, trauma and illness procedures complying with section 23 ; dealing with infectious diseases, including procedures complying with section 24 ; dealing with medical conditions in children; emergency and evacuation; delivery of QEC service children to, and collection of QEC service children from, QEC service premises, including procedures complying with section 26 ; excursions, including procedures complying with sections 55 and 56 ; providing a child safe environment; staffing, including— a code of conduct for staff members and volunteers; and determining the responsible person present at the service; and the participation of volunteers and students on practicum placements; interactions with QEC service children, including the matters set out in section 57 ; enrolment and orientation; governance and management of the service, including confidentiality of records; the acceptance and refusal of authorisations; payment of fees and provision of a statement of fees charged by the QEC service; dealing with complaints.\n- (a) health and safety, including matters relating to— (i) nutrition, food and beverages and dietary requirements; and (ii) sun protection; and (iii) water safety, including safety during any water-based activities; and (iv) the administration of first aid;\n- (i) nutrition, food and beverages and dietary requirements; and\n- (ii) sun protection; and\n- (iii) water safety, including safety during any water-based activities; and\n- (iv) the administration of first aid;\n- (b) incident, injury, trauma and illness procedures complying with section 23 ;\n- (c) dealing with infectious diseases, including procedures complying with section 24 ;\n- (d) dealing with medical conditions in children;\n- (e) emergency and evacuation;\n- (f) delivery of QEC service children to, and collection of QEC service children from, QEC service premises, including procedures complying with section 26 ;\n- (g) excursions, including procedures complying with sections 55 and 56 ;\n- (h) providing a child safe environment;\n- (i) staffing, including— (i) a code of conduct for staff members and volunteers; and (ii) determining the responsible person present at the service; and (iii) the participation of volunteers and students on practicum placements;\n- (i) a code of conduct for staff members and volunteers; and\n- (ii) determining the responsible person present at the service; and\n- (iii) the participation of volunteers and students on practicum placements;\n- (j) interactions with QEC service children, including the matters set out in section 57 ;\n- (k) enrolment and orientation;\n- (l) governance and management of the service, including confidentiality of records;\n- (m) the acceptance and refusal of authorisations;\n- (n) payment of fees and provision of a statement of fees charged by the QEC service;\n- (o) dealing with complaints.\n- (i) nutrition, food and beverages and dietary requirements; and\n- (ii) sun protection; and\n- (iii) water safety, including safety during any water-based activities; and\n- (iv) the administration of first aid;\n- (i) a code of conduct for staff members and volunteers; and\n- (ii) determining the responsible person present at the service; and\n- (iii) the participation of volunteers and students on practicum placements;","sortOrder":75},{"sectionNumber":"sec.66","sectionType":"section","heading":"Policies and procedures to be kept available— Act , s 244 (2) (i)","content":"### sec.66 Policies and procedures to be kept available— Act , s 244 (2) (i)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that copies of the current policies and procedures required under section 65 are readily accessible to the staff members of, and volunteers at, the service.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that copies of the current policies and procedures required under section 65 are available on request for inspection at the QEC service premises at all times that the QEC service is providing regulated education and care for children.\nMaximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.66-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that copies of the current policies and procedures required under section 65 are readily accessible to the staff members of, and volunteers at, the service. Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.\n(sec.66-ssec.2) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that copies of the current policies and procedures required under section 65 are available on request for inspection at the QEC service premises at all times that the QEC service is providing regulated education and care for children. Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.","sortOrder":76},{"sectionNumber":"sec.67","sectionType":"section","heading":"Notification of change to policies or procedures— Act , s 244 (2) (i)","content":"### sec.67 Notification of change to policies or procedures— Act , s 244 (2) (i)\n\nThe Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that parents of each QEC service child are notified at least 14 days before making any change to a policy or procedure referred to in section 65 that may have a significant impact on—\nthe QEC service’s provision of regulated education and care to any QEC service child; or\nthe family’s ability to use the QEC service.\nThe approved provider of a QEC service must ensure that parents of each QEC service child are notified at least 14 days before making any change that will affect the fees charged or the way in which fees are collected.\nIf the approved provider considers that complying with the notice period would pose a risk to the safety, health or wellbeing of any QEC service child, the approved provider must ensure that parents of each child are notified as soon as practicable after making a change referred to in subsection (1) .\n(sec.67-ssec.1) The Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that parents of each QEC service child are notified at least 14 days before making any change to a policy or procedure referred to in section 65 that may have a significant impact on— the QEC service’s provision of regulated education and care to any QEC service child; or the family’s ability to use the QEC service.\n(sec.67-ssec.2) The approved provider of a QEC service must ensure that parents of each QEC service child are notified at least 14 days before making any change that will affect the fees charged or the way in which fees are collected.\n(sec.67-ssec.3) If the approved provider considers that complying with the notice period would pose a risk to the safety, health or wellbeing of any QEC service child, the approved provider must ensure that parents of each child are notified as soon as practicable after making a change referred to in subsection (1) .\n- (a) the QEC service’s provision of regulated education and care to any QEC service child; or\n- (b) the family’s ability to use the QEC service.","sortOrder":77},{"sectionNumber":"sec.68","sectionType":"section","heading":"Display of prescribed information— Act , s 123","content":"### sec.68 Display of prescribed information— Act , s 123\n\nFor section 123 of the Act , the following information is prescribed—\nfor the Queensland provider approval—\nthe name of the Queensland approved provider; and\nthe provider approval number; and\nany conditions on the provider approval;\nfor the Queensland service approval—\nthe name of the QEC approved service; and\nthe service approval number; and\nany conditions on the service approval;\nfor any service waivers or temporary waivers held by the QEC service, the details of the waivers including—\nthe duration of the waiver; and\nwhether the waiver is a service waiver or a temporary waiver;\nthe name and contact details of the person at the QEC approved service to whom complaints may be given;\nthe name of the supervisor for the QEC approved service;\nthe hours and days of operation of the QEC approved service;\ncontact details of the chief executive;\nwhether a child at risk of anaphylaxis is enrolled;\na notice of occurrence of an infectious disease.\n- (a) for the Queensland provider approval— (i) the name of the Queensland approved provider; and (ii) the provider approval number; and (iii) any conditions on the provider approval;\n- (i) the name of the Queensland approved provider; and\n- (ii) the provider approval number; and\n- (iii) any conditions on the provider approval;\n- (b) for the Queensland service approval— (i) the name of the QEC approved service; and (ii) the service approval number; and (iii) any conditions on the service approval;\n- (i) the name of the QEC approved service; and\n- (ii) the service approval number; and\n- (iii) any conditions on the service approval;\n- (c) for any service waivers or temporary waivers held by the QEC service, the details of the waivers including— (i) the duration of the waiver; and (ii) whether the waiver is a service waiver or a temporary waiver;\n- (i) the duration of the waiver; and\n- (ii) whether the waiver is a service waiver or a temporary waiver;\n- (d) the name and contact details of the person at the QEC approved service to whom complaints may be given;\n- (e) the name of the supervisor for the QEC approved service;\n- (f) the hours and days of operation of the QEC approved service;\n- (g) contact details of the chief executive;\n- (h) whether a child at risk of anaphylaxis is enrolled;\n- (i) a notice of occurrence of an infectious disease.\n- (i) the name of the Queensland approved provider; and\n- (ii) the provider approval number; and\n- (iii) any conditions on the provider approval;\n- (i) the name of the QEC approved service; and\n- (ii) the service approval number; and\n- (iii) any conditions on the service approval;\n- (i) the duration of the waiver; and\n- (ii) whether the waiver is a service waiver or a temporary waiver;","sortOrder":78},{"sectionNumber":"sec.69","sectionType":"section","heading":"Prescribed records— Act , s 128","content":"### sec.69 Prescribed records— Act , s 128\n\nFor section 128 of the Act , a Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must keep records of the matters stated in schedule 4 for a QEC service.\nFor schedule 4 , items 21 and 22, the information must not include any information that identifies any person other than the approved provider.\ns 69 amd 2014 SL No. 103 s 7\n(sec.69-ssec.1) For section 128 of the Act , a Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must keep records of the matters stated in schedule 4 for a QEC service.\n(sec.69-ssec.2) For schedule 4 , items 21 and 22, the information must not include any information that identifies any person other than the approved provider.","sortOrder":79},{"sectionNumber":"sec.70","sectionType":"section","heading":"Duration of time for keeping records— Act , s 128","content":"### sec.70 Duration of time for keeping records— Act , s 128\n\nFor section 128 of the Act , a Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service must ensure that the following records are kept—\nif the record relates to an incident, illness, injury or trauma suffered by a child while being provided regulated education and care by the QEC service, until the child is aged 25 years;\nif the record relates to an incident, illness, injury or trauma suffered by a child that may have occurred following an incident while being provided regulated education and care by the QEC service, until the child is aged 25 years;\nif the record relates to the death of a child while being provided regulated education and care by the QEC service or that may have occurred as a result of an incident while being provided regulated education and care, until the end of 7 years after the death;\nin the case of any other record relating to a QEC service child, until the end of 3 years after the last date that the child was provided regulated education and care by the QEC service;\nif the record relates to the approved provider, until the end of 3 years after the last date on which the approved provider operated the QEC service;\nif the record relates to the staff member of, or a volunteer at, a QEC service, until the end of 3 years after the last date on which the staff member or volunteer provided regulated education and care for the service;\nin case of any other record, until the end of 3 years after the date on which the record was made.\n- (a) if the record relates to an incident, illness, injury or trauma suffered by a child while being provided regulated education and care by the QEC service, until the child is aged 25 years;\n- (b) if the record relates to an incident, illness, injury or trauma suffered by a child that may have occurred following an incident while being provided regulated education and care by the QEC service, until the child is aged 25 years;\n- (c) if the record relates to the death of a child while being provided regulated education and care by the QEC service or that may have occurred as a result of an incident while being provided regulated education and care, until the end of 7 years after the death;\n- (d) in the case of any other record relating to a QEC service child, until the end of 3 years after the last date that the child was provided regulated education and care by the QEC service;\n- (e) if the record relates to the approved provider, until the end of 3 years after the last date on which the approved provider operated the QEC service;\n- (f) if the record relates to the staff member of, or a volunteer at, a QEC service, until the end of 3 years after the last date on which the staff member or volunteer provided regulated education and care for the service;\n- (g) in case of any other record, until the end of 3 years after the date on which the record was made.","sortOrder":80},{"sectionNumber":"pt.7","sectionType":"part","heading":"Miscellaneous","content":"# Miscellaneous","sortOrder":81},{"sectionNumber":"sec.71","sectionType":"section","heading":"Fees","content":"### sec.71 Fees\n\nThe fees payable under the Act are stated in schedule 1 .\nFor schedule 1 , items 12 and 14 the maximum fee for copying is $400.00 for each item.\nThe chief executive may waive, reduce, defer or refund a fee if the chief executive considers that there are exceptional circumstances to do so.\n(sec.71-ssec.1) The fees payable under the Act are stated in schedule 1 .\n(sec.71-ssec.2) For schedule 1 , items 12 and 14 the maximum fee for copying is $400.00 for each item.\n(sec.71-ssec.3) The chief executive may waive, reduce, defer or refund a fee if the chief executive considers that there are exceptional circumstances to do so.","sortOrder":82},{"sectionNumber":"pt.8","sectionType":"part","heading":"Transitional provisions","content":"# Transitional provisions","sortOrder":83},{"sectionNumber":"sec.72","sectionType":"section","heading":"Definitions for pt 8","content":"### sec.72 Definitions for pt 8\n\nIn this part—\ncommencement means the commencement of this section.\ncontinuing staff member , of a QEC approved service, means an individual who—\nimmediately before the commencement, was employed, appointed or engaged to work in or as part of a centre based service under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and\non or after the commencement, became a staff member of the QEC approved service.\nrepealed regulation means the repealed Child Care Regulation 2003 .\n- (a) immediately before the commencement, was employed, appointed or engaged to work in or as part of a centre based service under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and\n- (b) on or after the commencement, became a staff member of the QEC approved service.","sortOrder":84},{"sectionNumber":"sec.73","sectionType":"section","heading":"Existing QEC approved services exempt from outdoor space requirements","content":"### sec.73 Existing QEC approved services exempt from outdoor space requirements\n\nThis section applies to a QEC approved service if—\nthe QEC approved service was a centre based service under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and\nimmediately before the commencement, building work that was assessable development was not being carried out at the centre based service.\nSection 32 does not apply to the approved provider in relation to the QEC approved service.\nIf, after the commencement, another person becomes a Queensland approved provider (a new approved provider ) of the QEC approved service, section 32 does not apply to the new approved provider in relation to the QEC approved service.\nHowever, section 32 again applies to the approved provider or the new approved provider if the provider carries out assessable development at the QEC approved service after the commencement.\nIn this section—\nassessable development see the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 , schedule 3 .\nbuilding work see the Building Act 1975 , section 5 .\n(sec.73-ssec.1) This section applies to a QEC approved service if— the QEC approved service was a centre based service under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and immediately before the commencement, building work that was assessable development was not being carried out at the centre based service.\n(sec.73-ssec.2) Section 32 does not apply to the approved provider in relation to the QEC approved service.\n(sec.73-ssec.3) If, after the commencement, another person becomes a Queensland approved provider (a new approved provider ) of the QEC approved service, section 32 does not apply to the new approved provider in relation to the QEC approved service.\n(sec.73-ssec.4) However, section 32 again applies to the approved provider or the new approved provider if the provider carries out assessable development at the QEC approved service after the commencement.\n(sec.73-ssec.5) In this section— assessable development see the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 , schedule 3 . building work see the Building Act 1975 , section 5 .\n- (a) the QEC approved service was a centre based service under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and\n- (b) immediately before the commencement, building work that was assessable development was not being carried out at the centre based service.","sortOrder":85},{"sectionNumber":"sec.74","sectionType":"section","heading":"Exemption from development of educational programs","content":"### sec.74 Exemption from development of educational programs\n\nThe requirements under section 9 do not apply to the Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service for 3 months from the commencement.","sortOrder":86},{"sectionNumber":"sec.75","sectionType":"section","heading":"Exemptions for particular first aid qualifications","content":"### sec.75 Exemptions for particular first aid qualifications\n\nThe requirements under section 42(1)(b) and (c) do not apply to the Queensland approved provider of a QEC approved service for 1 year from the commencement.","sortOrder":87},{"sectionNumber":"sec.76","sectionType":"section","heading":"Qualifications of continuing staff members generally","content":"### sec.76 Qualifications of continuing staff members generally\n\nA continuing staff member who held a 1 year qualification included on a list under the repealed regulation, other than the list called ‘School age care only’, is taken to hold an approved certificate III level education and care qualification.\nA continuing staff member who held a 2 year qualification included on a list under the repealed regulation, other than the list called ‘School age care only’, is taken to hold an approved diploma level education and care qualification.\nA reference in this section to a qualification in terms of a stated number of years is a reference to a qualification ordinarily completed in the stated number of years of full-time study.\n(sec.76-ssec.1) A continuing staff member who held a 1 year qualification included on a list under the repealed regulation, other than the list called ‘School age care only’, is taken to hold an approved certificate III level education and care qualification.\n(sec.76-ssec.2) A continuing staff member who held a 2 year qualification included on a list under the repealed regulation, other than the list called ‘School age care only’, is taken to hold an approved diploma level education and care qualification.\n(sec.76-ssec.3) A reference in this section to a qualification in terms of a stated number of years is a reference to a qualification ordinarily completed in the stated number of years of full-time study.","sortOrder":88},{"sectionNumber":"sec.77","sectionType":"section","heading":"Qualifications of continuing staff members—school age care services","content":"### sec.77 Qualifications of continuing staff members—school age care services\n\nThis section applies to a continuing staff member if the continuing staff member is a staff member of a school age care service.\nA continuing staff member who held a 1 year qualification included on a list called ‘School age care only’ under the repealed regulation is taken to hold an approved certificate III level education and care qualification.\nA continuing staff member who held a 2 year qualification included on a list called ‘School age care only’ under the repealed regulation is taken to hold an approved diploma level education and care qualification.\nA reference in this section to a qualification in terms of a stated number of years is a reference to a qualification ordinarily completed in the stated number of years of full-time study.\n(sec.77-ssec.1) This section applies to a continuing staff member if the continuing staff member is a staff member of a school age care service.\n(sec.77-ssec.2) A continuing staff member who held a 1 year qualification included on a list called ‘School age care only’ under the repealed regulation is taken to hold an approved certificate III level education and care qualification.\n(sec.77-ssec.3) A continuing staff member who held a 2 year qualification included on a list called ‘School age care only’ under the repealed regulation is taken to hold an approved diploma level education and care qualification.\n(sec.77-ssec.4) A reference in this section to a qualification in terms of a stated number of years is a reference to a qualification ordinarily completed in the stated number of years of full-time study.","sortOrder":89},{"sectionNumber":"sec.78","sectionType":"section","heading":"Persons engaged as an assistant before commencement","content":"### sec.78 Persons engaged as an assistant before commencement\n\nThis section applies if, immediately before the commencement—\na person was engaged in a position in a centre based service as an assistant under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and\nthe person had not been engaged in the position for more than 3 months; and\nthe person did not hold a qualification prescribed for an assistant under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 .\nA reference to an educator with an approved certificate III level qualification is taken to include a reference to the person.\nSubsection (4) applies for calculating the period a person has been engaged in a position without holding the qualification prescribed.\nThe period the person was engaged in the position before the commencement must be included in calculating the period under subsection (1)(b).\n(sec.78-ssec.1) This section applies if, immediately before the commencement— a person was engaged in a position in a centre based service as an assistant under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and the person had not been engaged in the position for more than 3 months; and the person did not hold a qualification prescribed for an assistant under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 .\n(sec.78-ssec.2) A reference to an educator with an approved certificate III level qualification is taken to include a reference to the person.\n(sec.78-ssec.3) Subsection (4) applies for calculating the period a person has been engaged in a position without holding the qualification prescribed.\n(sec.78-ssec.4) The period the person was engaged in the position before the commencement must be included in calculating the period under subsection (1)(b).\n- (a) a person was engaged in a position in a centre based service as an assistant under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and\n- (b) the person had not been engaged in the position for more than 3 months; and\n- (c) the person did not hold a qualification prescribed for an assistant under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 .","sortOrder":90},{"sectionNumber":"sec.79","sectionType":"section","heading":"Persons engaged as a group leader before commencement","content":"### sec.79 Persons engaged as a group leader before commencement\n\nThis section applies if, immediately before the commencement—\na person was engaged in a position in a centre based service, other than a school age care service, as a group leader under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and\nthe person had not been engaged in the position for more than 3 months; and\nthe person was a qualified assistant; and\nthe person did not hold a qualification prescribed for a group leader under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 .\nA reference to an educator with an approved diploma level qualification is taken to include a reference to the person in a QEC approved service, other than a school age care service.\nSubsection (4) applies for calculating the period a person has been engaged in a position without holding the qualification prescribed.\nThe period the person was engaged in the position before the commencement must be included in calculating the period under subsection (1)(b).\n(sec.79-ssec.1) This section applies if, immediately before the commencement— a person was engaged in a position in a centre based service, other than a school age care service, as a group leader under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and the person had not been engaged in the position for more than 3 months; and the person was a qualified assistant; and the person did not hold a qualification prescribed for a group leader under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 .\n(sec.79-ssec.2) A reference to an educator with an approved diploma level qualification is taken to include a reference to the person in a QEC approved service, other than a school age care service.\n(sec.79-ssec.3) Subsection (4) applies for calculating the period a person has been engaged in a position without holding the qualification prescribed.\n(sec.79-ssec.4) The period the person was engaged in the position before the commencement must be included in calculating the period under subsection (1)(b).\n- (a) a person was engaged in a position in a centre based service, other than a school age care service, as a group leader under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and\n- (b) the person had not been engaged in the position for more than 3 months; and\n- (c) the person was a qualified assistant; and\n- (d) the person did not hold a qualification prescribed for a group leader under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 .","sortOrder":91},{"sectionNumber":"sec.80","sectionType":"section","heading":"Persons engaged in coordinating position before commencement","content":"### sec.80 Persons engaged in coordinating position before commencement\n\nThis section applies if, immediately before the commencement—\na person was engaged in a coordinating position at a school age care service under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and\nthe person had not been engaged in the position for more than 6 months; and\nthe person did not hold a qualification prescribed for a group leader under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 .\nA reference to an educator with an approved diploma level qualification is taken to include a reference to the person in a school age care service.\nFor subsection (1)(a), a position at a school age care service is a coordinating position if the responsibilities of the position include being present at the child care centre for some or all of the times required under the repealed regulation, section 32.\nSubsection (5) applies for calculating the period a person has been engaged in a position without holding the qualification prescribed.\nThe period the person was engaged in the position before the commencement must be included in calculating the period under subsection (1)(b).\n(sec.80-ssec.1) This section applies if, immediately before the commencement— a person was engaged in a coordinating position at a school age care service under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and the person had not been engaged in the position for more than 6 months; and the person did not hold a qualification prescribed for a group leader under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 .\n(sec.80-ssec.2) A reference to an educator with an approved diploma level qualification is taken to include a reference to the person in a school age care service.\n(sec.80-ssec.3) For subsection (1)(a), a position at a school age care service is a coordinating position if the responsibilities of the position include being present at the child care centre for some or all of the times required under the repealed regulation, section 32.\n(sec.80-ssec.4) Subsection (5) applies for calculating the period a person has been engaged in a position without holding the qualification prescribed.\n(sec.80-ssec.5) The period the person was engaged in the position before the commencement must be included in calculating the period under subsection (1)(b).\n- (a) a person was engaged in a coordinating position at a school age care service under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 ; and\n- (b) the person had not been engaged in the position for more than 6 months; and\n- (c) the person did not hold a qualification prescribed for a group leader under the repealed Child Care Act 2002 .","sortOrder":92}],"analysis":{"summary":{"complexity_score":7,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The regulation appears to have remained focused on its original intent: providing detailed operational standards for Queensland-specific (QEC) early childhood education and care services. While some sections were omitted by 2025 amendments (ss 46–48) and section 41 was amended, these appear to be refinements or updates to staffing qualification rules rather than a fundamental expansion or contraction of scope. The regulation continues to address the same core areas — educational programs, physical environment, health and safety, staffing, and records — that would have been anticipated from the enabling Act."},"complexity_factors":["Operates as a subordinate instrument (regulation) that constantly cross-references a parent Act and the national Education and Care Services National Regulations, requiring readers to consult multiple documents simultaneously","Uses Queensland-specific terminology (QEC, QEC approved service, Queensland approved provider) that differs from the national framework terminology, creating potential for confusion","Detailed technical requirements across diverse subject areas: space calculations with specific exclusion rules, staff qualification tiers, ratio calculations, supervisor attendance formulas, and insurance minimums","Complex staffing ratio provisions including exceptions for group care, rest pause rules, and temporary absence rules that interact with each other","Multiple layers of waiver provisions (service waivers and temporary waivers) listing which requirements can be waived and under what circumstances","Enrolment record requirements incorporate references to Commonwealth family law concepts (parenting orders, parenting plans under the Family Law Act 1975)","Sections have been amended and some omitted by subsequent legislation (2025 amendments), meaning the printed text contains gaps and historical references that may confuse readers trying to understand current law","Penalty structure varies across provisions (5, 10, and 20 penalty units) with no single rule, requiring section-by-section review to understand enforcement consequences"],"plain_english_summary":"This Queensland regulation sets the required standards and obligations for early childhood education and care services approved under the state system (QEC). It governs how approved providers, educators, children and parents must operate — covering program quality, staffing and supervision, safety, recordkeeping, incident reporting and parental rights — and enforces those rules with fines and loss of approval. It matters because it defines the legal minimum for children’s care, education and safety in Queensland services."},"flash_summary":{"complexity_score":7,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"This regulation primarily operationalises the Education and Care Act by prescribing detailed requirements for approved providers and services. Later amendments and transitional provisions (noted in the text) adjust time windows, qualification equivalences and some procedural details, but do not materially expand the regulatory subject‑matter beyond regulating QEC services’ programs, premises, staffing, safety and record‑keeping. In short, the instrument implements and elaborates the Act’s remit rather than growing the scope of regulation beyond the original purpose."},"complexity_factors":["Lengthy regulation with many operational sections across multiple parts and divisions","Cross‑references to the Education and Care Act, the Education and Care Services National Regulations, Building Act 1975 and Sustainable Planning Act (multiple external references)","Several schedules used (schedule 1 fees, schedule 3 educator:child ratios, schedule 4 prescribed records, schedule 5 dictionary)","Numerous defined terms and qualifications (dictionary in schedule 5; approved diploma/certificate III concepts referenced throughout)","Multiple conditional rules and exceptions (e.g. verandah inclusion, school age care exceptions, small‑group ratios, transitional exemptions in pt 8)","Nested timing rules and limits (rest pauses, temporary absences, supervisor presence tied to operating hours, 14‑day notification requirement)","Discretionary decision points for the chief executive (approving equivalents, verandah inclusion, fee waivers)","Penalty regime with different maximum units across many provisions (5, 10, 20 penalty units)","Transitional provisions mapping prior regime qualifications to new definitions and time windows, plus several recent amendments/omissions noted in text"],"plain_english_summary":"**What this regulation does (mechanics first)**\n\n- Sets detailed, enforceable operating rules for Queensland early education and care services that hold a Queensland education and care (QEC) approval. It translates high‑level duties in the Education and Care Act into specific, day‑to‑day requirements (for example on programs, staffing, premises, safety, records and notifications).\n\n- Requires approved providers to do particular things (develop and display education programs, keep enrolment and attendance records, maintain first aid kits, conduct risk assessments for excursions, keep minimum indoor/outdoor space per child, provide safe food and hygiene, maintain specified staff qualifications and ratios, notify parents of certain events, and keep prescribed policies and procedures). Many requirements carry monetary penalties for non‑compliance (see relevant sections below).\n\n- Prescribes minimum public liability insurance of $10 million for provider and stand‑alone service approvals (s 5, s 60).\n\n- Prescribes what must be shown on public displays at services (approval numbers, supervisor name, hours, who to complain to, infectious disease notices, etc.) and which records must be kept and how long (including long retention for incident records) (s 68; s 69; s 70).\n\n- Lays out transitional and savings provisions that treat existing services and continuing staff under the old Child Care regime as holding certain equivalent qualifications for a period (pt 8, ss 72–80).\n\nKey content areas with representative sections\n\n- Educational programs: which national frameworks may be used (s 9), required learning outcomes (s 10), documentation, parent access to program information and inspection copies (ss 11–13).\n\n- Health, safety and incident management: food and hygiene rules (ss 14–16), alcohol/drug prohibitions (ss 17–18), medical authorisations and emergency medical attention (ss 19–21), definition of “serious incidents” that must be reported (s 22), infectious disease response and parent notification (s 24), and first aid kit and first aid staffing requirements (ss 25, 42).\n\n- Premises and equipment: safe, clean premises and sufficient furniture (s 27); fencing of outdoor areas (s 28); minimum unencumbered indoor space (3.25 m2 per child) and outdoor space (7 m2 per child) and rules for calculating those areas including excluded spaces and when a verandah may be counted (ss 29–33); design for supervision, laundry, toilets and nappy change facilities; communication equipment (ss 31, 34–38, 35–37, 38).\n\n- Staffing and supervision: educator qualifications and percentages required (diploma and certificate III levels) for centre‑based and school‑age services (ss 39–41); supervisor presence requirements (s 44); rules on who counts in ratios (must be working directly with children) and limited exceptions for short rest/temporary absences (ss 50–52); prescribed educator/child ratios and an alternative grouping rule for small groups (ss 53–54; see schedule 3 for the numeric ratios).\n\n- Excursions: mandatory risk assessment before seeking parent authorisation and the content that must be considered and recorded; strict form of written parent authorisation required (ss 55–56).\n\n- Relationships, parent access and behaviour: expected interactions and opportunities for children (ss 57–58), parental right to enter premises subject to safety, court orders or conflict with the Act (s 59).\n\n- Policies, procedures and notifications: providers must have written policies on a long list of matters (health and safety, fees, enrolment, staffing, complaints, etc.), make them available to staff and parents, and notify parents 14 days before changes that would significantly affect service provision or families’ ability to use the service or any change to fees (ss 65–67).\n\n- Records and privacy: specific enrolment information and health details to be kept in each child’s enrolment record (ss 62–64), prescribed records (s 69) and retention periods (s 70) including incident records retained until the child is aged 25 (s 70(a),(b)).\n\n- Fees and discretion: schedule 1 lists fees; the chief executive may waive, reduce, defer or refund a fee in exceptional circumstances (s 71).\n\nWho it affects\n\n- Primary: approved providers of QEC services, service supervisors, educators, volunteers and any staff who provide regulated education and care.\n- Secondary: parents and authorised nominees (who must sign authorisations and will be notified of incidents, infectious disease occurrences, and significant changes), landlords and owners of premises that must meet space/fencing standards, insurers (minimum cover required), and regulators who enforce the Act and this Regulation.\n\nWhy it matters (practical consequences)\n\n- Compliance obligations are practical and prescriptive. Providers will need to maintain staff with particular qualifications or evidence of working towards them (ss 39–41), meet educator/child ratios (ss 53–54; schedule 3), keep detailed records and retain some for long periods (ss 62–64; s 70), and maintain premises, equipment and hygiene to specified standards (pts 4 divs 2–3).\n\n- These provisions create recurring costs for providers: training and employing credentialed educators, insurance premium for $10m public liability (ss 5, 60), facility modifications to meet indoor/outdoor area or fencing rules (ss 28–33), recordkeeping systems, and staff time to prepare policies, risk assessments for excursions and parent notifications (ss 55–67).\n\n- The regulation delegates some discretion to the chief executive (for example, to accept equivalent program documents (s 9(c)), to approve use of verandahs in indoor space calculations (s 29(3)), and to waive fees (s 71)). Those discretions reduce rigidity but create regulatory uncertainty about when exceptions will be granted.\n\nPolicy claims and trade‑offs (stated purpose vs costs and incentives)\n\n- Stated purpose: operationalise duty of care and educational quality for children in regulated services (see program, safety, record‑keeping and staffing requirements generally, e.g. ss 9–13, 14–26, 39–42).\n\n- Trade‑offs and opportunity costs:\n  - Higher qualification and staffing requirements and strict ratios raise quality and supervision standards but increase labour costs and may raise prices or reduce supply (especially for small operators) (ss 39–41, ss 53–54).\n  - Detailed building and space rules and fencing requirements improve safety but can require capital upgrades or restrict suitability of some premises (ss 28–33).\n  - Long record retention for serious incidents (until the child is 25) increases administrative burden and storage costs (s 70(a),(b)).\n\n- Implementation risk and compliance burden:\n  - Many provisions use qualitative standards—“adequate”, “reasonable”, “appropriate” or “facilitates supervision”—which require regulatory judgement in enforcement and can cause uncertainty in operational decisions (for example, ss 27, 30, 33, 34, 35).\n  - Several places allow the chief executive to approve alternatives; providers must engage with the regulator for approvals, which takes administrative time (s 9(c); s 29(3)).\n\n- Effects on market structure:\n  - The combination of staffing/qualification requirements, insurance floors and premises standards increases the fixed and operating costs of providing services. That tends to advantage larger providers who can spread compliance costs and may reduce entry or encourage consolidation; transitional provisions mitigate short‑term shocks for existing staff and services (pt 8, ss 73–80).\n\nConcentrated benefits and diffuse costs\n\n- Concentrated benefits go to children and parents in the form of clearer rules on safety, supervision and education, and to staff who have clearer role and training expectations (multiple sections cited above).\n- Costs are diffuse across providers (smaller operators may feel them more strongly), parents (through fees if providers pass on costs), and insurers (who price $10m cover) (ss 5, 60; s 71).\n\nNotable enforcement and penalty points\n\n- Several breach points attract penalties measured in penalty units (for example health hygiene s 14 — 5 penalty units; sleep and rest s 16 — 10 units; infectious disease s 24 — 20 units; first aid staff requirements s 42 — 20 units). Providers must be aware of these when setting policies and staffing.\n\nRepresentative section references (non‑exhaustive): ss 4–8 (approvals, notices, waivers), 9–13 (programs/documentation), 14–26 (health and incidents), 27–38 (premises/equipment), 39–56 (staffing, qualifications, ratios, excursions), 57–69 (interactions, parents, records), 70 (retention), 71 (fees), pt 8 ss 72–80 (transitional rules)."},"flash_summary_failed":{"failed":true,"reason":"A positive credit balance is required for all requests, including BYOK, so fallback providers remain available. Add credits at https://vercel.com/d?to=%2F%5Bteam%5D%2F%7E%2Fai%3Fmodal%3Dtop-up to continue.","source":"analysis-cron"},"issue_detection":{"absurdities":[],"contradictions":[]},"kimi_summary":{"_metrics":{"completionTokens":922},"content_quality":"ok","complexity_score":6,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The regulation appears consistent with its original purpose of operationalising the Education and Care Services Act for Queensland-specific services. The detailed requirements align with standard childcare regulation scope."},"complexity_factors":["Multiple cross-references to the parent Act and National Regulations (e.g., first aid qualifications defined externally)","Detailed conditional calculations for indoor/outdoor space with numerous exclusions","Nested exceptions for staffing ratios and qualifications (e.g., sections 53-54 with alternative calculation methods)","Extensive record-keeping requirements with varying retention periods (3, 7, 25 years)","Transitional provisions creating parallel qualification pathways for existing staff","Overlapping requirements between service waivers and temporary waivers with slightly different scope","Prescribed information display requirements with 9 distinct categories","Conditional rest pause rules with 4 cumulative requirements"],"plain_english_summary":"This is a **Queensland regulation** that sets detailed rules for early childhood education and care services operating under state law (separate from the national system). It covers:\n\n**Who it affects:**\n- Approved providers of Queensland Education and Care (QEC) services — including childcare centres and school-age care services\n- Parents using these services\n- Educators and staff working in these services\n\n**What it does:**\n\n**1. Provider and service approvals**\n- Sets requirements for notifying parents when provider or service approvals are suspended or cancelled\n- Requires $10 million public liability insurance\n- Lists which requirements can be waived (temporarily or permanently) — things like fencing, space requirements, and educator qualifications\n\n**2. Educational programs**\n- Services must develop programs based on national frameworks ('Belonging, Being and Becoming' for early years, 'My Time, Our Place' for school-age care)\n- Programs must help children develop identity, wellbeing, learning confidence, and communication skills\n- Providers must document each child's progress and make this information available to parents\n\n**3. Safety, health and wellbeing**\n- Mandates safe food handling, drinking water, nutritious meals, and rest periods\n- Prohibits alcohol, drugs, and tobacco on premises\n- Requires medical authorisation from parents before providing care\n- Defines 'serious incidents' that must be reported — including deaths, serious injuries, emergency services attendance, missing children, or children being locked in/out\n- Requires first aid kits and infectious disease protocols\n\n**4. Physical environment**\n- **Indoor space:** minimum 3.25m² per child (excluding kitchens, toilets, storage, etc.)\n- **Outdoor space:** minimum 7m² per child\n- Requires safe fencing, ventilation, natural light, temperature control, and shade protection from sun\n- Mandates nappy change facilities, laundry facilities, and toilets designed for safe child access\n\n**5. Staffing requirements**\n- **Qualifications:** At least 50% of educators must hold (or be working towards) a diploma; others must hold at least Certificate III\n- **First aid:** At least one educator with current first aid, anaphylaxis training, and asthma training must be present at all times\n- **Ratios:** Strict educator-to-child ratios based on age groups (set out in Schedule 3)\n- **Supervision:** Supervisors must be present 75% of operating hours; educators under 18 cannot work alone\n\n**6. Excursions**\n- Requires written parent authorisation with detailed information about destination, transport, activities, and supervision ratios\n- Mandates risk assessments covering water hazards, transport, and emergency preparedness\n\n**7. Records and information**\n- Detailed enrolment records required, including medical information, emergency contacts, court orders, and cultural requirements\n- Attendance records must be signed at drop-off and pick-up\n- Policies must cover health, safety, emergencies, excursions, complaints, and child protection\n- Records must be kept for 3–25 years depending on type (longest for incidents involving children)\n\n**8. Transitional provisions**\n- Grandfathering arrangements for existing services and staff who qualified under old rules\n- Temporary exemptions for some requirements when the regulation first commenced\n\n**Why it matters:**\nThis regulation protects children's safety, ensures quality education, and gives parents confidence in childcare services. It balances national standards with Queensland-specific requirements, particularly for services not covered by the national system."}},"importantCases":[],"_links":{"self":"/api/acts/education-and-care-services-regulation-2013","history":"/api/acts/education-and-care-services-regulation-2013/history","analysis":"/api/acts/education-and-care-services-regulation-2013/analysis","conflicts":"/api/acts/education-and-care-services-regulation-2013/conflicts","importantCases":"/api/acts/education-and-care-services-regulation-2013/important-cases","documents":"/api/acts/education-and-care-services-regulation-2013/documents"}}