Feeling overwhelmed by so many recent changes to our sector?
A New Era for Early Childhood Regulation: Introducing the Early Years Commission
From December 2025, the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector entered a new chapter in regulatory oversight. The responsibility previously held by the Education, Care and Early Childhood Directorate (ECECD) has now formally transitioned to the Early Years Commission .About the Early Learning Commission
It reflects a national shift toward a more integrated, child‑centred approach to early years governance — one that strengthens accountability, elevates quality and places children’s wellbeing at the centre of every decision.
What This Means for ECEC Services
ECEC providers will no longer report to ECECD. All regulatory engagement, notifications, compliance matters and official correspondence must now be directed to the Early Years Commission.
The Commission has been established to streamline processes and provide a clearer, more consistent regulatory framework. For services, this means:
Updated reporting pathways and communication channels
A stronger focus on child safety, quality and professional standards
Greater transparency and alignment across early years policy and regulation
A modernised approach to oversight and sector support
This transition is an ideal time for services to review their internal documentation, systems and communication to ensure alignment with the new regulatory body.
Don’t Forget to Update Your Documentation
To remain compliant and avoid outdated references, services should now update all materials that previously named ECECD. This includes:
Provider information displayed in your foyer
Parent and family handbooks
Enrolment packs
Policies and procedures
Website content
Any other documents, templates or communications that reference ECECD
Ensuring these updates are completed promptly demonstrates professionalism, accuracy and a commitment to transparent communication with families and staff.
How Elevate Success Consultancy Can Support You
Periods of reform can feel overwhelming, but you don’t need to navigate them alone. Elevate Success Consultancy is here to support your service with clarity, expertise and practical guidance.
We at ESC believe that the establishment of the Early Years Commission marks a significant step forward for children, families and the ECEC workforce. As the sector adapts to these changes, Elevate Success Consultancy stands ready to support you in strengthening compliance, enhancing quality and embedding child‑safe practice at every level.
Reach out to us today and let us support you!