New Childcare Centre Support
Opening an early learning service in Australia involves two parallel approval streams, dozens of regulatory requirements, and months of careful planning. ELC Group makes the process clear, manageable, and successful.
From Concept to Opening Day - We'll Guide You Every Step of the Way.
Opening an ECEC service is one of the most exciting decisions you can make - and one of the most complex. Between Council planning approvals and regulatory authority approvals, you are navigating two entirely separate processes simultaneously, each with their own requirements, timelines, and risks.
Many aspiring providers underestimate how long this process takes and how much detail is involved. ELC Group has guided services through every stage - and we're here to make sure yours goes smoothly.
The Process - Stage by Stage:
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Before anything else, your proposed site needs planning approval from your local Council. We help you prepare for and navigate the pre-application process and lodge your Development Application — including advice on location assessment, zoning, and what Council will be looking for.
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Once planning is approved, detailed architectural design must comply with specific ECEC regulatory requirements. We guide you through the design and compliance review process, Building Permit lodgement, and the construction phase — ensuring your facility will meet regulatory standards before you apply for service approval.
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This is the most regulatory-intensive stage — and the one where expert support matters most. We assist with the full suite of provider and service approval applications, including PA01, SA01/02, JUA applications, and CCS provider and service approval. We also support you with all associated notifications and the National Early Childhood Worker Register.
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Approval is only the beginning. We support you through staffing, systems, policies and procedures, and all the operational preparation needed to open your doors with confidence.
Why ELC Group?
We've supported providers through every type of service establishment - new builds, converted premises, and everything in between. We know the regulatory requirements inside out, and we know the common pitfalls that cost providers time and money. Our job is to make sure you avoid them.
Thinking about opening a service? Get in touch - the earlier we're involved, the smoother the process.