We help prepare young Queenslanders for the future by effectively regulating non-state schools and supporting a diverse education system.
Legislative framework
The Non-State Schools Accreditation Board (NSSAB) operates under the Education (Accreditation of Non-State Schools) Act 2017 (the Act) and the Education (Accreditation of Non-State Schools) Regulation 2017 (the Regulation). Together, the Act and the Regulation form the legislative framework, which NSSAB, the secretariat and authorised persons implement.
Regulatory approach
NSSAB's regulatory approach prioritises student safety, wellbeing and positive educational outcomes through quality programs and good governance. We collaborate with governing bodies, schools and stakeholders to ensure compliance with legislation and achieve quality educational and wellbeing outcomes for students. Key documents guiding our regulatory approach include:
Learn more about our vision for quality education in safe environments in our strategic plan for 2025–29.
Risk-based regulation
NSSAB aspires to be a contemporary, risk-based regulator, focusing on areas with the highest likelihood and most significant consequences of risk. This ensures:
- student safety and educational quality are safeguarded
- regulatory activities are effective and targeted
- regulatory burden is minimised
- resources are used efficiently for maximum impact.
More information is available in our regulatory approach statement.
Decision-making framework
Our decision-making framework, guided by the Act, ensures that NSSAB:
- makes transparent, consistent and fair decisions in the interest of students and the public
- implements proportionate, risk-based responses to mitigate risks and harm
- reflect on decisions to improve future outcomes
- remains accountable for its actions.
Access the decision-making framework for more information.
Broader legislative obligations
Non-state schools must also comply with a range of broader legislative obligations.
Functions
NSSAB's main functions under the Act include:
- processing applications and granting accreditation and eligibility for government funding
- monitoring and ensuring compliance
- conducting investigations and enforcing legislation
- keeping a register of accredited schools
- carrying out other functions as required by the Minister or other legislation.
Authorised persons and the secretariat undertake regulatory functions on behalf of the board. This includes, assessing information, investigating for compliance and making recommendations under the legislation to the board. Learn more about authorised persons and the secretariat.
Powers
NSSAB has the authority to:
- approve or cancel a school's accreditation
- approve or withdraw eligibility for government funding
- investigate schools, governing bodies and other entities to ensure compliance
- request information or corrective actions from governing bodies and other entities
- work with other organisations to maintain standards in non-state schools.
Goals
NSSAB aims to:
- ensure quality education
- promote governing body and school accountability
- support compliance
- encourage continuous improvement
- foster educational choice.
By achieving these goals, NSSAB strengthens confidence in Queensland's non-state school sector, benefiting communities across the state.