Ministry delivers on first major regulatory review report

The Ministry for Regulation has delivered the first of its regulatory review reports to the Minister for Regulation – the early childhood education (ECE) report. 

The report is the result of our first major regulatory review, that began in June 2024 and heard from thousands of New Zealanders who provided feedback on the ECE regulatory system.

Thank you to all the parents and whānau, ECE staff and service providers, and the wide range of other stakeholders who took part in the review and who continue to support this work

The report presents 15 recommendations that propose improvements to how government regulates the ECE sector. The recommendations would support ECE service providers to protect the children in their care, provide high quality services and thrive in the market by expanding to meet demand.

The Minister for Regulation has accepted the 15 recommendations, and early in 2025, will take a paper to Cabinet for consideration, with the intention of turning the recommendations into action.

Regulatory Review of Early Childhood Education – summary

Regulatory Review of Early Childhood Education – full report

Minister's press release: Review recommends ECE regulation shakeupopen_in_new