Expanding Quality Access Program

The Expanding Quality Access program is an optional funding opportunity for community preschool providers who wish to transition their service/s to a long day care service model by extending hours and/or welcoming younger children. The total program investment is $100 million financed from the NSW Childcare and Economic Opportunity Fund.

Welcome to the Expanding Quality Access application, powered by SmartyGrants. Please ensure you save as you go. 

Expanding Quality Access is open for applications.

Applications are to be submitted by the person with management or control at:

• the Approved Provider of an eligible community preschool, or
• an agent (third party organisation) that applies for the program on behalf of an approved provider of the eligible community preschool, with the provider’s permission.

An authorised agent is a person nominated by person with management or control to act on behalf of the Approved Provider applying for the Expanding Quality Access program.

Applicants intending to apply for more than one community preschool, must submit a separate application form for each community preschool.

Applications for Expanding Quality Access are open until 11:59PM, 13 April 2026.

For assistance with the online application system SmartyGrants

• visit SmartyGrants Help Guide External link and Applicant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
• contact the Smarty Grants Support Desk on 03 9320 688 or email service@smartygrants.com.au 9am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday.
• download the Help Guide for Applicants.
• check out Applicant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's). 

Questions of Expanding Quality Access program guidelines

• contact the EQA team at eqa@det.nsw.edu.au
• click here to view information about the Expanding Quality Access program, including program guidelines.