Complaints about childcare providers in New South Wales have surged by 52% in just three months, prompting the newly appointed head of the NSW Early Learning Commission, Daryl Currie, to take decisive action. In light of recent abuse scandals, including alarming incidents where children were subjected to degrading treatment, Currie has vowed to utilize new regulatory powers to close centres that jeopardize the safety of vulnerable children.
Currie’s commitment comes as part of a broad initiative aimed at increasing oversight in a sector that has faced significant scrutiny. The surge in complaints follows a series of shocking incidents that have angered the community, highlighting a critical need for reform. The new regulatory powers set to be implemented in the coming year will enable the Commission to suspend childcare workers under investigation for misconduct from all early learning sites across New South Wales. Previously, the authority could only suspend individuals from their specific workplaces, relying heavily on employers to take action.
In response to the growing concerns, the government has introduced a series of reforms aimed at enhancing child safety. For the first time, both the regulator and the sector will be legally bound to prioritize the rights and welfare of children. Additional measures include the establishment of an independent regulatory authority and a substantial investment of $55 million to bolster frontline staff. Furthermore, there will be an increase in the publication of regulatory data to improve transparency.
Currie stated, “If somebody is acting or providing a service as a risk to kids, my expectation is that we will act. We act quickly to ensure those children are safe.” He emphasized that if necessary, the Commission would not hesitate to shut down centres or prohibit individuals from working in the sector.
The urgency of these changes is underscored by data set to be released, which will reveal a 40% increase in compliance notices, a 57% rise in enforceable undertakings, and a staggering 350% jump in prohibition notices compared to the same quarter last year. These statistics reflect a growing commitment to holding childcare providers accountable for their actions.
Currie expressed the importance of trust between parents and the regulatory process. He reassured the public that the Commission operates independently and is dedicated to making informed decisions regarding child safety. “I understand how upsetting and for some people traumatic the last year has been. Please be confident we understand and we are prepared to act,” he affirmed.
Professor of early childhood governance, Marianne Fenech, welcomed the new regulatory authority’s ability to shut down centres that fail to meet quality standards. She noted that past leniency had allowed some services to operate without necessary improvements. However, she cautioned that while stricter penalties may deter some providers, they are ultimately a reactive measure.
Fenech emphasized the need for more preventative strategies to address the underlying issues within the sector. “Staff are working in conditions that are untenable. Parents need more confidence in a system that can assure them their children are protected,” she stated.
As the new regulations take effect, the Commission is poised to reshape the landscape of early childhood care in New South Wales, ensuring that the protection and well-being of children remain the foremost priority.
