Step 7: Fitout and OC
Before reaching this step, stakeholders should have:
This step involves the delivery of a fully compliant, fit for purporse ECEC that is ready for operation. It includes the final fitout of the interior and exterior of the ECEC, establishing all necessary recreational, operational and educational equipment, followed by certification (from a registered certifier) that the space is compliant, and the operator is able to legally occupy the premises.
What is an occupation certificate?
An Occupation Certificate (OC) must be obtained to occupy and use a new building or part of a building or change the use of an existing building. This is the final step in the development application and construction process. The OC certifies that the building (typically Class 9b for ECEC) is suitable for occupation and complies with all relevant planning and building regulations. (Planning Portal, NSW Government)
- An application can only be made by a person who is eligible to appoint a principal certifier for the development through the NSW Planning Portal.
- View the steps to obtain an occupation certificate.
What are Class 9b buildings?
Class 9b buildings are assembly buildings in which people may gather for social, theatrical, political, religious or civil purposes.
They include schools, universities, child care centres, preschools, sporting facilities, night clubs, or public transport buildings. (NCC, 2022)
Step 7 checklists
Further resources
What links can help with fitout and OC?
- Education and Care Services National Regulations
- Education and Care Services National Law
- Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) National Quality Framework (NQF)
- ACECQA (National Quality Standard NQS)
- National Construction Code (NCC)
How to I obtain ECEC provider approval?
- ECEC provider approval is required by the NSW Regulatory Authority for ECEC, to ensure that ECEC providers meet the standards needed to protect the safety, health, and wellbeing of children in education and care services.
- Provider approval applications can be submitted through the National Quality Agenda IT System.
- Steps to obtain provider approval. Supporting documentation required to obtain provider
How do I obtain ECEC service approval?
- ECEC service approval is a confirmation from the regulatory authority that that the provider and the specific premises meets the standards of the NQS. It is separate from DA approval.
- Service approval applications can be submitted through the National Quality Agenda IT System.
- Steps to obtain service approval. Supporting documentation required to obtain service approval for long day care
Please go to our next page: Step 8: Operation