About the OECD Thematic Review of ECEC and Australia's participation:

Invited by the participating countries, OECD expert teams evaluate each country's policy, programs and provision for children from birth to compulsory school age. Prior to the review, participating countries publish a background report describing current policy and practice, and outline the challenges that ECEC policy faces in the coming years. After the expert review, the OECD publishes a country note that notes the issues observed, and suggests solutions and recommendations for the consideration of the competent authorities.

Australia was the twelfth, and final, country to host an OECD review team visit as part of the first round of reviews. Prior to the visit, a background report on ECEC policy in Australia was prepared by Professor Alan Hayes and Ms. Frances Press of Macquarie University. After analysis of the background report, a review team consisting of two OECD Secretariat members and three experts with diverse analytic and policy backgrounds visited Australia between June 12-23, 2000. The Australia country note was published in November 2001.