Regulators are taking record action to lift safety and quality standards in early education and care.
New data shows regulators took 1,538 compliance actions in the latest quarter, more than double the 735 at the same time last year.
State and territory regulators also cancelled the approvals of 589 services under National Law, 20 times the number in last year's quarter.
The proportion of services meeting the National Quality Standard (NQS) remains at a record high of 92 per cent, up from 88 per cent when the Government came to office.
Reliance on staffing waivers is also falling, with waivers used by 4.3 per cent of services this quarter compared with 7.9 per cent at the same time last year.
The increased compliance action follows the almost half-a-billion-dollar package of safety reforms being rolled out by the Albanese Government with states and territories.
Last year, Education Ministers agreed to more regular assessment and rating visits.
States and territories agreed to ensure all services are assessed on average every three years, with more frequent visits for those rated Working Towards the NQS.
In June this year the Albanese Government extended the historic 15 per cent pay rise for early education and care workers.
As part of the extension, a new condition was placed on services requiring them to meet the NQS to be eligible for the payment.
This will help push services to meet national standards.
Source: ACECQA NQF Snapshot Q2 2026.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:
"There is nothing more important than the safety of our kids.
"Enforcement action is at record highs.
"The percentage of services meeting the national quality and safety standards is at the highest level ever as well.
"We have also introduced legislation to cut funding to centres that aren't up to scratch.
"This shows our reforms and stronger enforcement powers are working to lift standards.
"This is a good sign. But there is more to do.
"The truth is this work will never end.
"We have to keep the pressure on to make sure the safety and quality in early education is what parents expect and what our children deserve."
