24 AprEnsuring child safety: Early Childhood Education and Care post-ABC investigations
In light of the recent investigations into the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sector, we want to acknowledge the emotional toll this coverage may have had on members of our community.
While the Four Corners and 7.30 reports provided a vital spotlight onto the vulnerability of children, we understand how confronting and distressing they may have been. This is particularly the case for the services that are committed to upholding child safety and may feel disheartened by the broader failures shown.
We recognise that these investigations may have been a reminder to many in the sector to revisit and refresh on what their obligations are when it comes to child safety. To support you, we recommend the following resources:
- Whistleblower Policy available through ELAA’s PolicyWorks catalogue
- Notifying a Reportable Allegation from the Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP)
- Child Protection Obligations in Early Childhood Services from the Victorian Government
These resources provide clear and comprehensive overviews of child safety and reporting obligations.
Above all, we reaffirm our unwavering stance: no child should ever feel unsafe in an ECEC setting.
We commend the children, families, and educators who shared their stories in these investigations. Their courage highlights both the vulnerabilities that children face and the vital role we all play in ensuring their safety. We stand with those advocating for a stronger, safer ECEC sector and are committed to ensuring that children always feel safe and happy in early childhood education and care.
