Ratios by state
Educator-to-Child Ratios in ACT (2026)
The centre-based educator-to-child ratios that apply in the Australian Capital Territory, with a free calculator preset to ACT.
ACT ratio table
| Age group | Ratio (educators:children) |
|---|---|
| Birth to 24 months | 1:4 |
| Over 24 months and under 36 months | 1:5 |
| 36 months up to and including preschool age | 1:11 |
| Over preschool age (school age / OSHC) | 1:11 |
ACT-specific notes
- In the ACT, children 36 months up to and including preschool age and over preschool age both use 1:11.
- Ratios are calculated across the whole service, not per room.
Verified against ACECQA, September 2026. Always confirm on the ACECQA educator-to-child ratios page and with the ACT Children's Education and Care Assurance.
Calculate educators needed in ACT
Minimum educators required
0
0 children present - ACT
| Age group | Children | Ratio | Educators |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-24 months | 0 | 1:4 | 0 |
| 24-36 months | 0 | 1:5 | 0 |
| 36 months to preschool age | 0 | 1:11 | 0 |
| Over preschool age | 0 | 1:11 | 0 |
Guide only. Educators must be working directly with children to count in ratios, adequate supervision must be maintained at all times, and staffing waivers, Early Childhood Teacher requirements and state rules may apply. Confirm with your regulatory authority. Ratios verified against ACECQA in September 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What is the ratio for babies in ACT childcare?
For children from birth to 24 months, the ratio in the Australian Capital Territory is 1 educator to 4 children.
What is the ratio for 2 to 3 year olds in ACT?
For children over 24 months and under 36 months, the ratio in the Australian Capital Territory is 1:5.
What is the preschool ratio in ACT?
For children aged 36 months up to and including preschool age, the ratio in the Australian Capital Territory is 1:11.
Are ratios calculated per room or across the service?
Under the National Quality Framework, ratios are calculated across the whole service at all times, not room by room. Zone-level ratios can still help you see where cover is thin.
Where can I check the official ratios?
ACECQA publishes the current educator-to-child ratios for every state and territory. Always confirm with ACECQA and your regulatory authority.
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