Regulation Minister, David Seymour, has provided an update on the implementation of the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Sector Review.
From today the Education Review Office (ERO) will regulate ECE, giving effect to recommendations made by the Review.
“The Review found that ECE regulation was all over the place and applied with an iron fist. This left the sector confused and forced staff to work double time just to stay above the red tape, when they should be focussed on caring for children,” Mr Seymour says.
“Last year we passed a law to fix it. Today more changes take effect.
“Previously ECE regulation was confusing, inconsistently applied and was not focused enough on risk. Now the ECE sector has simpler requirements, clearer responsibilities, proportionate enforcement, and better support for providers.”
The Minister said the Education and Training (Early Childhood Education Reform) Amendment Act 2025 gives effect to this approach.
“lt provides that children’s health, safety and wellbeing are paramount, while regulatory decisions must be risk-based, proportionate, fair and transparent, and avoid unnecessary costs for parents and providers,” he said.
“My Letter of Expectations to ERO make it clear that those principles should guide how they regulate the ECE sector.
“These reforms will make it easier to open and run high-quality centres, which means more choice and better access for parents. This is part of the Government’s wider commitment to smarter, more effective regulation that encourages growth and unlocks New Zealand’s potential.”
