Just starting to think about opening an OOSH

[hannah8]

I'm a total newbie to this field, so thanks in advance for your patience with me!

I live in a small country town in NSW where there are many families with children, but only two pre-school/ELC options, and no OOSH. All other services are at least 30 minutes' drive away.

I think there is - or would be - demand for an OOSH service, and I'm thinking about whether I could open one.

With a young child of my own, I'd prefer to do after-school care only, and perhaps holiday activities.

I have started some research and was surprised to read that OOSH staff do not need to have any qualifications (I am qualified to Masters level but not in relevant areas, and have no childcare experience). So my first question is - is that true? I have a WWCC but am amazed there are no other qualification requirements.

I know of a well located property that could potentially be suitable, I think, but before I proceed further I thought I would ask if there is a "basics" page that I could refer to, as I know nothing about the CCB, and am only just starting to think about activities, staffing ratios, costs, age/number of kids, etc.

Thank you!

[Lorina]

HI!

It's a great idea to open up an OOSH in your local community especially if the needs are there!

Before starting any service, you need to become an approved provider. This gives you approval to start operating. You must apply and go through an application process providing all relevant documentation.

Please go through the following it will explain the process and provide all relevant information:

Provider Approval

Let me know if you have any further questions.

,
Lorina

[MissSophie]

Thanks, I will look into it right away

[KelleyFranecki]

Hello Lorina!
By the way, let me ask, to make sure the supplier is approved, what requirements do I need to have to make the approval process faster?

[KelleyFranecki]

Hello Lorina!
By the way, let me ask, to make sure the supplier is approved, what requirements do I need to have to make the approval process faster?geometry dash meltdown

I look forward to hearing from you!

[katebrownell86]

That sounds like a fantastic idea, especially with the limited options in your town! You're right that OOSH staff don’t always need formal qualifications, but having experience and relevant training (like first aid and child protection) is important. Since you're just starting out, a great place to begin is the ACECQA website—they outline key regulations, funding (like the Child Care Subsidy), staffing ratios, and other essentials. Connecting with local councils or existing providers could also give you insights. Sounds like there’s real demand, so it’s definitely worth exploring further—good luck!