What services must expect during "living with COVID"

Now that we in NSW are effectively "living with COVID", early childhood education and care (ECEC) services must anticipate that the NSW Department of Education will be returning to normal operations.

This is likely to mean that there will be a return to normal levels (including frequencies) of all regulatory functions, including:

• assessments and ratings
  
• spotchecks/compliance visits
• risk assessments of new applicants intending to become Approved Providers

Which is why ACA NSW would greatly appreciate members' feedback on what should be the "COVID normal" conduct of its Authorised Officers in anticipation of discussions with the NSW Department of Education.

That said, the NSW Department of Education is keenly aware of a number of challenges facing ECEC services, especially labour shortages especially post the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

ACA NSW is also very aware that as we fast approach winter, we also need to anticipate what support are needed from the NSW Regulatory Authority and governments.

Should members require further information/clarification or wish to provide feedback/input, please contact the ACA NSW team on 1300 556 330 or nsw@childcarealliance.org.au. 

PUBLISHED: 5 APRIL 2022