Opening a childcare service today
The development of the childcare business in Australia has undergone significant evolution in recent years,
reflecting the nation's growing interest in elevating and expanding early childhood education and care services.
As a result, operating a childcare business is a significant commitment. The industry continues to be heavily regulated, demanding from service providers meticulous attention to detail and continuous monitoring to comply with stringent regulatory requirements.
Leveraging our extensive experience in childcare, our team helps property developers and childcare operators to navigate the complexities of every phase of development.
How we can help
Understanding the nuances of the childcare industry
The childcare sector is structured by a framework of unique guidelines and opportunities which require experience and in-depth knowledge to be able to navigate.
Examples of important and complex aspects of the childcare industry framework include policy reforms, such as the introduction of the National Quality Framework, that have raised standards and accountability across the sector to ensure quality outcomes for children, as well as increased government investment and subsidies that have facilitated greater accessibility to childcare services for families, driving demand and expansion of childcare services.
Collaboration between government, providers, and educators continues to shape a robust industry aimed at nurturing Australia's youngest learners and supporting workforce participation. This concerted effort underscores recognition by regulatory and funding bodies of the vital role childcare plays in Australia's social and economic landscape, and further highlights the paramount importance of understanding obligations and industry norms when operating a childcare business.
Joining the industry
We are highly experienced in navigating the legal and regulatory nuances of the sector to help you establish and maintain a compliant and thriving childcare business.
In addition to staff and business licensing requirements, childcare facilities require an understanding of and ability to prepare agreements for tenant improvements to adapt the property to the specific needs of the childcare center. Our comprehensive advice covers the full spectrum of legal issues highly pertinent to preparing and operating a childcare business, including:
- Terms of childcare business licensing;
- Landlord and tenant works, maintenance and repairs;
- Strategic Planning advice;
- Purchase/Sale of childcare business;
- Acquisition of land for childcare use;
- Agreements for Lease for purpose-built childcare facility;
- Commercial lease for childcare use;
- Childcare facility construction contract review; and
- Construction disputes resolution.
Preparation of childcare leases
As part of our commercial leasing capabilities, we regularly advise on the preparation of childcare leases and agreement to leases.
Our experience lends our practice a high degree of familiarity and proficiency with property and leasing considerations unique to the childcare industry.
Site Acquisitions with Developer Collaboration
Understanding the importance of strategic site acquisitions in the childcare sector, we collaborate closely with developers. Our comprehensive legal expertise affords our clients coverage of all appropriate legal considerations and due diligence practices to ensure the avoidance of unexpected hurdles with the acquisition or following settlement.
Through actively participating in the process and understanding our clients’ requirements for childcare facilities, we bridge the gap between legal intricacies and developmental aspirations.
Expertise in Planning Permits and Approval
Navigating the labyrinth of planning permits and approvals is a critical aspect of establishing a childcare centre. Our legal team understands the necessary permissions, ensuring compliance with local regulations. We aim to save our clients’ time and resources while mitigating potential roadblocks.
Speak with a lawyer.
Serena Ding.
Principal.
- Property, Business & Public Notary
- 03 9890 3321
- Email Address: s.ding@robinsongill.com.au
Kelly Brown.
Associate.
- Property and Wills & Estates
- 03 9890 3321
- Email Address: k.brown@robinsongill.com.au
Resources & FAQs
Answers to common questions in
relation to the expertise.
What approvals do you need to operate a childcare service?
To become an approved provider and opening a childcare service, you need obtain two approvals, each serving different purposes and granted separately by either the Australian Government or the state/territory government.
What to consider when you are purchasing a childcare business?
Purchase of a childcare business can involve complex issues. You may purchase a childcare business along with land and building （Freehold Business） or a business operation with staff, clients, equipment and lease obligations （Leasehold Business）.