The Department of Education has issued a warning reminding home‑based childcare providers they must be registered through an approved Family Day Care service to operate legally.
The department says all educators offering family day care must be linked to an approved provider, such as Upper Hunter Family Day Care, to deliver care and access child care subsidies.
While demand for childcare remains strong across rural areas, the department warns unregistered services may breach the law. It says unapproved care can carry risks including a lack of professional oversight, no insurance coverage and no mandatory background checks.
Authorities say these gaps may expose providers to legal and financial consequences, while also placing families at risk.
Upper Hunter Family Day Care is encouraging anyone interested in becoming an educator to make contact. The service says it offers support with registration, compliance requirements and accessing subsidies, helping to reduce costs for families while ensuring care meets regulatory standards.
