The not-for-profit child care sector is urging the Federal Government to buy ABC Learning, which has been put into voluntary administration and has revealed it is $1 billion in debt.

The head of SDN Children's Services, Ginny Udi, has suggested the Government could then put the management of the centres out for tender.

She says it would be an opportunity for the Government to set quality standards on the industry.

"We believe it's time for the Government to take back the reins," she said.

"The not-for-profit sector is very concerned that something as important as children's growth and development and early learning was allowed to be subject to the market."

Earlier, Education Minister Julia Gillard announced the Government is to provide up to $22 million in funding to keep ABC Learning centres open until December 31.

Ms Gillard said the funding was to bridge the gap between the cost of operating unprofitable centres and the amount that is raised through their operation.

"The $22 million represents the possible costs of supporting the continued operation of these centres for two months and will allow parents to have certainty that childcare will be provided as usual," she said.

She also flagged reforms to controls over the private child care sector in the wake of the collapse.

"We believe this is an area which needs to be managed," she said.

"The former government just took its hands off the wheel and shut its eyes as the market was allowed to rip.

"What happened with ABC - ultimately I think accountants will answer that question for us and our corporate regulators will have something to say on the matter."