UPDATE: Major reforms to strengthen working with children checks across Australia have been fast-tracked, with a commitment to implement changes by December 31, 2023. Attorney-General Michelle Rowland announced today that individuals banned from holding a working with children check in one jurisdiction will now be banned in all, marking a significant step in child protection efforts.
During a press conference in Sydney, Rowland emphasized the urgency of these reforms, stating, “We now have a moment as a country, as a federation, to get this done.” The decision follows alarming reports of abuse in childcare centers, including incidents where banned workers continued in the industry without oversight.
The new measures will enhance communication between state and territory systems. However, there will not be a unified national working with children check; each jurisdiction will continue to manage its own system. Rowland assured that all states and territories are committed to accelerating the reform process, saying, “There is a firm commitment from all states and territories to pull out all stops and we are working together as a team.”
In addition to these checks, Education Minister Jason Clare confirmed that compliance actions have begun against 30 early childhood centres under new federal laws aimed at stripping funding from centers failing to meet safety standards. He stated, “It’s time to ensure the safety of our youngest citizens.”
The renewed focus on child safety comes after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described recent abuse reports as “shocking,” stating, “These revelations are a wake-up call for state and territory governments.” Parents have expressed outrage over the failures in the current system, which allowed a Victorian childcare worker to retain his credentials despite substantiated allegations of grooming.
Calls for a national working with children check have been persistent since recommendations were made in 2015 during a royal commission into child sexual abuse. Rowland acknowledged the delays in implementing these reforms, stating, “We have been let down by successive governments at all levels.”
A parliamentary inquiry in New South Wales revealed that many childcare centers are not verifying if staff are qualified to work with children before hiring. It was reported that banned workers could remain in the industry for years without scrutiny.
Opposition education spokesman Jonno Duniam stressed the pressing need for stronger protections, saying, “There is no time to waste to put stronger measures in place to protect children in childcare.” Meanwhile, the Greens party plans to propose a senate inquiry into the safety and quality of early childhood education when parliament resumes later this month.
Next week, the nation’s education ministers will convene to discuss additional child safety laws for childcare centers. Among the proposed measures are the installation of CCTV in facilities and mandatory child safety training for staff.
As these developments unfold, parents and guardians are urged to stay informed and advocate for the safety of their children. For immediate support, individuals can contact the 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service.
With these reforms on the horizon, Australia stands at a crucial juncture in its commitment to protect children in childcare settings. Expect further updates as this situation develops.
