Victoria’s childcare regulator has suspended Gabow Family Day Care for 90 days following serious safety and compliance breaches.

The decision forces the immediate closure of 44 family day care residences across Melbourne’s outer suburbs.

Inspectors found unqualified educators and more than 20 additional breaches during compliance checks.

Authorities say the action was taken to protect the safety and wellbeing of children.

The provider has been given 90 days to address the identified issues before operations can resume.

It is the first time Victoria’s new childcare regulator has used its powers to immediately suspend a family day care provider.