Provider Approval vs Service Approval: What's the Difference?
If you’re opening a childcare centre in Australia, two approvals come up early, and they’re easy to confuse. Here’s the difference, in plain English.
Provider Approval
A Provider Approval authorises a person or entity to operate education and care services under the National Law. Think of it as approving you (or your company) as a fit and proper operator.
- It applies nationally.
- It’s about the provider, not a specific building.
- It’s generally the first approval you obtain.
Service Approval
A Service Approval authorises a specific service at a specific premises. Think of it as approving this centre, at this address.
- You need a separate Service Approval for each service you run.
- It’s tied to the premises, so the building, layout and outdoor space matter.
- You apply for it once you (or your entity) are an approved provider.
Why you need both
You can’t legally open a centre with only one. The Provider Approval says you’re allowed to operate education and care services; the Service Approval says this particular centre is approved to operate. Together they’re the legal foundation of the business.
The order it usually happens
- Apply for Provider Approval (you/your entity).
- Apply for Service Approval for your premises.
- Nominate your Nominated Supervisor and ensure responsible persons meet the requirements.
In some circumstances the two applications can be made together. The right approach depends on your situation and your state or territory regulatory authority.
Where it goes wrong
The most common causes of delay are incomplete documentation, premises that don’t meet requirements, and underestimating how long the regulator takes to assess. Getting the application right the first time is the single biggest factor in opening on schedule.
Approvals are where most new centres stall. If you’d like the approval pathway managed end to end, get in touch or read more about our licensing and accreditation support.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Requirements are set under the National Law and administered by your state or territory regulatory authority.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need both a Provider Approval and a Service Approval?
Yes. To legally operate a childcare service you need a Provider Approval (which authorises you or your entity to operate education and care services) and a Service Approval (which authorises a specific service at a specific premises).
Which comes first, Provider or Service Approval?
Provider Approval generally comes first, because it authorises you as an approved provider. You can then apply for a Service Approval for your specific premises. The two can be applied for together in some circumstances.
Does a Provider Approval work in any state?
Provider Approval applies nationally under the National Law, but each service you operate still needs its own Service Approval for its specific premises, granted by the relevant state or territory regulatory authority.
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