The approval process for childcare follows that of any other project. Town planning permit then building permit, certificate of occupancy, occupy done.
Childcare has a third authority, the Department of education and training. They are responsible for the licensing of childcare centres. Generally speaking they only look at a centre after it is built, as their licence requires an inspection to determine that the building and environment is safe and appropriate for the children.
The problem with this process is that if you engage with inexperienced consultants and builders to design and build your childcare you may be risking a license. The licensing body quite rightly can refuse a licence if there are too many problems with the project or reduce the licensed places they certify. In either case your project viability comes undone, and if you have a tenant, they won’t be able to operate to the full extent of their agreement with you and you will not get your expected rent.
The other problem with the approval process is that you may get a planning permit that complies with the planning legislation but cannot comply with building codes. This is most commonly seen with undercooked escape provisions in multi-level centres. If there are missing elements or problems with the design that are part of the planning permit the only way to remedy them is an amendment. It can be a straightforward process, but at best for minor changes will delay you a few weeks amending the permit. At worst can trigger re-advertising and the delays can be substantial.
It is essential that you engage with consultants that have an established track record, successfully delivering centres. (expand on the fear of this and the benefit of using us)