All articles
The complete ELM insights library: 106 articles on compliance, operations, sector news, and development.
Childcare Oversupply in Australia: Is Your Centre's Occupancy Falling Because of the Market?
National occupancy fell from 81.8% to 76.1% in two years, and Western Australia dropped almost 12 points. State-by-state data, five checks to tell if your catchment is oversupplied, and what operators can do about it.
Childcare Centre Lease Terms Explained: Rent Per Place, Incentives and the 15% Rule
Rent per place benchmarks, the occupancy cost ratio that decides viability, the review clauses that compound over 20 years, and the incentives most operators never ask for. What to check before you sign or renew a childcare lease in 2026.
How to Value Your Childcare Centre — And Why Most Owners Should Think Twice Before Selling
EBITDA multiples, occupancy benchmarks, lease terms — the numbers behind what your centre is actually worth. And an honest case for why, if compliance is wearing you down, selling might not be your best move.
Childcare Award Wages in 2026: What Centre Owners Need to Know
Three wage changes have hit childcare workers covered by the Children's Services Award in the space of five months. Here is what happened, how the Worker Retention Payment interacts, and what operators need to do now.
What Does a Childcare Management Company Actually Do?
If you own, develop, or invest in childcare centres and you've heard the term 'management company' but aren't sure what one actually provides: this is the direct answer.
How to Start a Childcare Centre in Australia: The Complete Guide
From approved provider registration and DA lodgement through to construction and staffing, a practical, step-by-step guide to opening a new childcare centre in Australia.
The National Quality Framework Explained: 7 Quality Areas, 18 Standards
The NQF is the regulatory foundation for every approved childcare service in Australia. Here is what the 7 quality areas and 18 standards actually require, and what separates Meeting from Exceeding NQS.
How to Improve Childcare Centre Occupancy: A Practical Guide
Occupancy above 85% is financially viable. Below 75%, the model compresses fast. Waitlists do not convert automatically. Here is what actually moves the needle.
Child Care Subsidy Explained: What Childcare Operators Need to Know
CCS replaced CCB and CCR in 2018 and has changed significantly since. From the income-tested subsidy rates to the 3 Day Guarantee introduced in January 2026: here is how it works.
Childcare Centre Due Diligence: Five Questions Before You Buy
Most financial mistakes in childcare acquisitions happen before settlement. The right due diligence questions, on demographics, competition, compliance, and financials, are what separate a strong investment from a costly one.
Childcare Staffing Requirements and Ratios: What Operators Must Know
Staff ratios under the National Regulations, qualification requirements, and the workforce shortage affecting 21,000 positions nationally. Here is what it means for how you run your service.
NQS Quality Ratings: What Each Rating Means and How to Improve Yours
91% of assessed services are now rated Meeting NQS or above. Understanding what separates Meeting from Exceeding, and what the rating actually reflects, is what lets you manage your quality position actively.
Childcare Centre Financial Model: Key Metrics and Benchmarks
Labour at 60–75% of revenue, EBITDA margins of 15–25%, and a breakeven occupancy of 70–80%. Here are the financial metrics that define whether a childcare centre is performing or just surviving.
Australia's Childcare Workforce Shortage: What the Data Shows
268,050 workers nationally, a shortage of 21,000 today and 18,000 more needed over the next decade. Here is what the workforce data means for operators, investors, and developers.
Building vs Buying a Childcare Centre: Greenfield vs Acquisition Compared
Construction costs from $19,000–$34,000 per place, DA timelines of 6–12 months, and EBITDA multiples of 5x–8x for acquisitions. A factual comparison of both paths into the childcare sector.
"Can You Hear Me?" – The Power of Children’s Voices in Early Childhood Education
In early childhood education, listening to children’s voices is not just about hearing their words. It is about recognising that children are capable and competent, expressing their ideas,...
Celebrating the Journey – Why Process Art Matters in Early Childhood Education
Children’s artwork is often one of the most visible parts of early learning. Families delight in colourful paintings, collages, and clay creations displayed proudly on walls or sent home at the end...
The Power of Open-Ended Questioning in Early Childhood Education and Care
In early childhood education, the way we engage with children can have a profound impact on their development. One of the most effective tools educators have at their disposal is the art of asking...
Are Our Kids Truly Safe in Child Care? A Minister’s Perspective
Minister Jess Walsh addresses national concerns about child care safety in Australia following shocking incidents. Learn what reforms are coming and what they mean for families.
Navigating the Future: The Changing Landscape of Childcare in Australia
Discover how childcare in Australia is evolving through policy reforms, digital innovation, and inclusive practices. Explore key challenges, trends, and opportunities shaping the sector’s future.
Childcare Funding Model Under Scrutiny
Chronic understaffing, rising costs, and for-profit tensions. Australia’s childcare system is under pressure. We explore whether the CCS model still serves our children and what needs to change.
The Power of Inquiry-Based Learning in Early Childhood Education
Discover how inquiry based learning in early childhood fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and deeper learning through play and exploration.
Understanding Child Development
A clear understanding of child development helps educators create inclusive, responsive learning environments. Learn how developmental knowledge shapes pedagogy, planning, and observations in early childhood education.
Getting to Know Each Child: The Key to a Meaningful Start to the Year
Written By Early Learning Management's Inclusion Coordinator - Blake Stewart A new year brings new faces, fresh starts, and countless opportunities to build strong connections with the children in...
How StartingBlocks.gov.au Simplifies Childcare Choices
Discover StartingBlocks.gov.au, the ultimate childcare guide in Australia. Find quality childcare services and make informed decisions for your family's needs.
How the Workplace Gender Equality Targets Bill Will Transform Childcare
Discover how the Gender Equality Targets Bill 2024 could revolutionise childcare, fostering equity in pay, leadership, and opportunities.
Celebrating the Bright Future of Childcare in Australia
Explore ACECQA's 2023–2024 Annual Report: Celebrating progress, quality care, and sustainable innovation in Australian childcare.
Labor Proposal to Overhaul Child Care Accessibility
Labor’s plan for three days of subsidised child care eases financial stress for families while boosting enrolments in early learning centres.
Navigating ECEC Funding Reform
Explore ECEC funding reform, lessons from aged care, and ACCC recommendations to ensure affordability, quality, and sustainability.
Creating a Universal Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) System: Transforming Access, Affordability, and Quality for All
Discover the benefits of universal access to high-quality Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), focusing on affordability, accessibility, workforce development, and inclusion for all children, particularly those experiencing disadvantage.
Navigating the New Merger Reform Bill for ECEC Operators
Learn what Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) operators need to know about the landmark Merger Reform Bill 2024, including mandatory notification requirements, competition concerns, and key notification thresholds. Stay informed to navigate the changing regulatory landscape.
The Power of Words: Oral Language and Literacy in Early Childhood Education
The early years of a child's life are critical for laying the foundation of their life long educational journey. In recent years, there has been a growing down push of academic expectations from...
The External Environment for Childcare Services in Australia
Discover the key factors influencing the childcare services sector in Australia and learn how providers can succeed in this evolving industry.
Optimising Your Childcare Centre for Success
Discover essential strategies for running a successful childcare centre in Australia, from flexible scheduling to diverse services and strategic location selection.
Transforming Australian Childcare
Discover the innovative approach of Early Learning Management in transforming Australian childcare. Experience excellence in nurturing, educating, and managing early learning environments.
Early Education Property Investment: Market Insights.
Explore the growth of Australia's Early Education Property Market in 2023, highlighting government subsidies and affordability.
Transforming Childcare in Australia: A Deep Dive into the ACCC's Report
Explore key insights from the ACCC's childcare report, uncovering the urgent need for reforms in Australia's childcare sector.
Elevating Childcare: The Progress and Challenges of Long Day Care Services in Australia
Dive into the progress and solutions in long day care quality and care across Australia, focusing on enhancing safety, compliance, and educator excellence
Embracing Progress: The 2022 Update to the Early Years Learning Framework and My Time Our Place
Discover the pivotal 2022 updates to Australia's Early Years Learning Framework and My Time Our Place, shaping the future of early learning.
The Undervalued Backbone of Childcare
Childcare Wage Equity. Explore the need for childcare wage equity & the impact it has on our communities. Learn how it shapes the lives of young minds & their families.
Early Childhood Education and Care – Balancing Family and Work
Explore the impact of Early Childhood Education and Care - ECEC on Australian parents' work-life balance and labour participation.
Childcare Safety and Quality: Elevating Australian Standards
Explore the impact of NCC and NQF amendments on Australian childcare, enhancing safety and quality standards. Learn more with ELM.
Australian Childcare Adaptation: Navigating New Challenges
Explore strategies for Australian childcare providers to overcome financial and regulatory challenges, ensuring sector growth and stability.
Generative Artificial Intelligence in Australian Childcare
Discover how Gen AI can transform Australian childcare. Learn its impact on productivity, ethical use, and how it could set new standards.
The Advantages of Using Xero in Your Childcare Business
Explore how Xero streamlines financials in childcare centres. Learn about collaboration, customisation, and compliance for better management.
Why Early Learning Management Chooses foundU: Benefits and Compliance Advantages
Discover why Early Learning Management chooses foundU for efficient workforce management and compliance in the childcare sector.
Navigating Childcare Challenges with eLearning in Australia
Explore how eLearning is transforming childcare. From staff training to compliance, Early Learning Management offers digital solutions.
Childcare Centre Cybersecurity in Australia
Discover why Childcare Centre Cybersecurity in Australia is crucial, and learn actionable steps to protect sensitive data.
Enhancing the Onboarding Experience with foundU
Discover how Early Learning Management leverages foundU to revolutionise the onboarding experience in childcare centres. Create a seamless, efficient, and employee-friendly process today.
Enhancing Quality in Australian Childcare
Enhancing Quality in Australian Childcare with insights from Early Learning Management. Discover key factors shaping the future.
The Imperative of Risk Assessment in Australian Childcare: A Comprehensive Guide
Discover the importance of risk assessment in Australian childcare settings. Learn practical tips and guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
eLearning in Childcare – Maximising Focus
Discover five strategies for focused eLearning in childcare. Boost performance and career growth with Early Learning Management's insights.
Early Learning Management: Transforming Australian Childcare
Revolutionise Australian childcare with ELM's tailored solutions. Boost efficiency & attain excellence in childcare management with us.
Childcare Licensing and Regulations
Unveil the essentials of childcare licensing & regulations in Australia. Learn about NQF, national laws, and compliance with ELM.
Innovations in Childcare Management: A Comprehensive Guide by Early Learning Management in Australia
Explore ELM's dedicated solutions to Australian childcare. Innovations, strategies, and technologies transforming childcare in Australia.
Get to Know Early Learning Management's Service Centre: Revolutionising Childcare in Australia
Explore Early Learning Management's Service Centre: a cutting-edge solution for childcare in Australia. Achieve accuracy, efficiency & transparency today!
The Top 5 Trends Shaping the Australian Childcare Sector in 2023
Discover the top 5 trends revolutionising the Australian childcare sector in 2023. From tech integration to family engagement, we dive into what's shaping the future.
Enhancing Childcare Business Efficiency and Compliance
Explore ELM's tailored solutions for childcare business efficiency & compliance in Australia. Embrace innovation with ELM.
Childcare in Australia: The Emerging Leader of the Property Market
Explore the rise of childcare in Australia's property market, driven by government support, investment growth, and international appeal.
Balancing Quality and Affordability: A Deep Dive into Australia’s Childcare Conundrum
Dive deep into the Australian childcare sector's struggle to balance high-quality services and affordability, examining the factors and potential solutions.
Starting a Childcare Business in Australia: Steps for Success
Discover the essential steps to start a successful childcare business in Australia. From structure to financing, ELM guides you through it all!
Winning the Game of Childcare Education with ELM's eLearning
Explore ELM's eLearning platform, empowering educators with quality content in Australia. Join us in revolutionising childcare education. Visit now!
The Essential Guide to Collecting Gap Fees Electronically
Discover the importance of electronically collecting gap fees in the Australian Childcare Sector. This guide provides a detailed overview of provider obligations, practical methods, and compliance under Family Assistance Law.
Changes to the NQF: A Comprehensive Guide Starting from 1 October 2023
Unravel the significant changes to the National Quality Framework (NQF) in the Australian childcare industry, starting from 1 October 2023, and learn how they impact safety, transparency, and quality in early education and care.
The Future of Childcare Services in Australia: ACCC’s Interim Report
Explore the key findings of the ACCC's interim report on childcare services in Australia, including pricing, supply and demand, and the impact of the Child Care Subsidy. Understand the importance of affordable and accessible childcare, and discover the potential focus areas for future inquiry and policy decisions.
Identifying Persons with Management or Control of a Service from 1 July 2023 - Prospective Providers
Discover the changes in identifying persons with management or control of a service in the Australian childcare industry starting from 1 July 2023. This blog post guides prospective providers in understanding the new definitions and responsibilities.
Navigating Management and Control Changes in Australian Childcare: A Comprehensive Guide for Existing Providers
Stay informed with the latest changes in identifying 'management or control' in the Australian childcare sector. Our comprehensive guide helps existing providers adapt to these new guidelines and ensure ongoing compliance
Changes in ECEC Regulation
Explore the key changes in Australian ECEC regulation, finance, and quality control measures from July 1. This guide helps childcare providers adapt and comply with these new standards.
Upcoming Changes to Child Care Subsidy and Provider Regulations
Understand the upcoming changes to the Child Care Subsidy and provider regulations in 2023. Early Learning Management can assist you in navigating these changes efficiently.
Navigating the Changes: Understanding the July 2023 Update to “Persons with Management or Control” in Australian Childcare
Discover the crucial changes coming to the Australian childcare sector in July 2023. Learn about the new definitions for 'Persons with Management or Control' and how they impact you as an approved provider.
Essential Guide to Choosing a Children's Education and Care Service in Australia
Discover the essential guide to choosing a children's education and care service in Australia. Learn about types of services, NQF, NQS quality ratings, and more to make the best choice for your child.
Enhancing Early Childhood Education: Preventing Child Care Subsidy Fraud and Noncompliance
The Australian Government is dedicating more resources to prevent child care subsidy fraud and noncompliance. Read about these crucial budget allocations and how they'll strengthen early childhood education.
Services Australia's Use of Cellebrite's Forensic Extraction Device: A Closer Look
Explore the implications of Services Australia sharing password-crackers with the Department of Education, using Cellebrite's Universal Forensic Extraction Device. Understand the reasons behind this collaboration, concerns about privacy and data retention, and adherence to international agreements. Delve into the distinction between serious non-compliance and general customer compliance, and the transparency of contracts with Cellebrite.
New Regulations for Short Term Relief of Educators at Centre-Based Services in Australia
Learn about the latest changes in Australian regulations regarding the short-term replacement of educators at centre-based services. Stay informed about the new guidelines coming into effect from 1st July 2023.
Harness the Power of Professional Childcare Management with ELM’s Service Centre
Discover the advantages of professional childcare management with ELM’s Service Centre. Learn how our tailored solutions can help your childcare business thrive in Australia's competitive landscape.
Embracing a More Comprehensive Definition of Persons with Management
Learn how our comprehensive guide can help you navigate the expanded definition of Persons with Management or Control (PMC) in the childcare sector from July 1, 2023.
Embracing Technology for Efficient Childcare Management: Introducing the Service Centre by Early Learning Management
Learn how Early Learning Management's Service Centre can help streamline childcare operations with its comprehensive platform that provides access to weekly service reporting, operational manager's reports, financial and analytical data.
Temporary Staffing Changes for Centre-Based Educational Services
Explore the new provisions effective from July 1, 2023, offering greater flexibility for temporary role substitution in educational and care services under the National Quality Framework (NQF).
Federal Budget 2023: ECEC Puts Workforce Development in Spotlight, Awaits Child Care Subsidy Changes
Explore how the Federal Budget 2023 impacts Australia's ECEC sector, focusing on workforce development and anticipated changes to the Child Care Subsidy system, to ensure high-quality childcare across the nation.
Persons with Management or Control (PMCs) in the Australian Childcare Sector
Explore the role and responsibilities of Persons with Management or Control (PMCs) in the Australian childcare sector. Understand the difference between management and leadership, the roles of nominated supervisors and responsible persons, and how Early Learning Management can provide compliance and governance support
Changes to inducements in early childhood education and care sector from 2023
Inducements that are financial or not directly associated with the quality or provision of education or care services will not be allowed. Learn about the significant changes to inducement rules in Australia's early childhood education sector from 2023. Understand the impact of these changes on providers, and how they aim to promote transparency and fairness in childcare fees.
Excellence in Childcare Management: An Australian Perspective
Early Learning Management has spent more than 30 years providing solutions to childcare owners, educators, & operators in Australia.
The benefits of Childcare eLearning
The Childcare Learning Management platform gives you the ability to ensure your Educators remain optimally equipped to educate children.
Changes to Gap Fee Payments for Child Care Subsidy (CCS) in Australia
The gap fee is the difference between the provider’s fee and the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) amount.Starting from July 1, 2023, families in Australia are required to pay their childcare gap fees digitally as part of the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) program. Learn about the new regulations, the significance of digital payments, and the benefits they bring to families and the Department of Education.
UNICEF and ARACY release report on wellbeing of Australian children
UNICEF Australia and the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth have just released a comprehensive report on the wellbeing of Australian children.
National Cabinets Draft Vision For ECEC
The National Cabinets Draft Vision for ECEC is a promising step towards ensuring high-quality early childhood education and care in Australia.
Australian Childcare: A Comprehensive Overview of Education in the Country
This article provides an overview of the Australian childcare system and its impact on early education. Learn about the benefits of childcare in Australia, the types of services available, and the government initiatives in place to support families.
Childcare Management in Australia
Early Learning Management is the industry leader in providing proven solutions for childcare provider teams in finance, payroll, and marketing for success.
Childcare Policy and Procedure Management
Early learning management and Doctract are pleased to announce they have entered into a worldwide strategic partnership combining Early Learning Management's childcare management services with...
How Childcare Management Lays a Foundation to Success
In Australia, the purpose of Quality Area 1 of the National Quality Standard is to make sure that educational programs are stimulating for young children. The objective is to improve their learning...
Support for Victorian Families, Childcare Workers and Services
Support for Victorian Families, Childcare Workers and Services. Federal Government asks childcare centres to protect places in Victoria.
5 Resources for Opening a Childcare Business in Australia
Great decision – opening your own childcare business is an excellent way to combine your passions and expertise into a rewarding entrepreneurial outcome.
5 Childcare Marketing Strategies That Will Drive Traffic
Marketing for a childcare business is something that anyone can do with the help of online tools that are already available to the public.
What’s in The Budget of a Start-up Childcare Business?
Setting a strategic budget is one of the crucial tasks of starting a childcare centre. Early Learning Management discusses some of the costs that need to be factored into the budget. Call us for assistance.
Looking Towards the Future: Financial Forecasting for Childcare Centres
Financial forecasting is critical to a business’ success. It enables business owners to minimise risks & make sound decisions in anticipation of unforeseen circumstances. By looking at internal &...
Why You Need Financial Forecasting for Your Childcare Centre
Financial forecasting is a crucial process for any business’ survival, but many childcare centre owners feel that it’s a waste of time. Learn how financial forecasting can help your centre thrive from Early Learning Management.
Hiring Childcare Staff: Ideal Qualities of Childcare Educators
Educators play a huge role not only in teaching but also in well-being & development of children. ELM offers childcare development strategies to help you.
Green Childcare Centres Teach Kids to be Environmentally Responsible
A childcare centre committed to the environment gives kids a head start in green practices. Early Learning Management shares how these centres teach children to care for the environment.
The Challenges of Providing Childcare Services
Seeking childcare consultancy & advisory from Early Learning Management may help improve childcare services to set your business apart from competitors.
Creating Interactive Learning Spaces for your Childcare Centre
Digital technology has made it possible for learning to be more interactive. Learn how you can turn your childcare centre into an interactive learning space.
Hiring Competent Educators
Staff recruitment is one of the most important aspects of establishing a childcare centre. Early Learning Management shares how centres can find applicants who are right for the job.
Key Factors of Childcare Acquisition Process
Childcare Management – With many vendors enlisting facilities for sale, it becomes a challenge for a novice player to bump into the right choice.
A Brief Guide to Plan Your Childcare Operations
Plan your childcare operations with Early Learning Management which will walk you through the step-by-step process of starting the business, from assessing the need for child care services to selecting the service, setting up your business & preparing for opening day.
How Crucial is Childcare Project Management for the Success of a Business?
Childcare project management consultancy helps in putting your systems & procedures in place to bring clarity & consistency, & make the children, their parents & staff feel secure.
Top 5 Tips for Anyone Starting a Childcare Service
Planning to develop your own childcare business? Early Learning Management guides you in starting your own child care business. Call us today.
Childcare Centres and Earning a Client-Parent's Trust
There are over 6800 childcare centres in Australia. Standing out is all about knowing what parents are looking for and gaining their trust.
106 articles
Looking for the latest articles?
Back to latest insightsSector updates, straight to you.
New articles, compliance updates, and sector intelligence. No noise, no marketing. Just useful content for serious operators.
Get the updates