URGENT UPDATE: Australia is set to overhaul its national working with children scheme by the end of the year, tackling critical safety issues in childcare. Attorney-General Michelle Rowland announced on Friday that individuals banned from holding a working with children check in one state will face bans across all jurisdictions under fast-tracked reforms.
This significant move comes amid rising concerns over child safety, particularly following disturbing reports of abuse in childcare facilities. Rowland emphasized the urgency of the reforms, stating, “We now have a moment as a country, as a federation, to get this done.”
The new system will enhance communication between various state and territory systems, although it will not establish a national working with children check. Each jurisdiction will continue to manage its own checks, but the interconnectedness aims to prevent any banned individuals from slipping through the cracks.
30 early childhood centres are currently under compliance action for failing to meet safety standards, according to Education Minister Jason Clare. This follows laws passed by the federal parliament in July that strip funding from non-compliant centers. Clare’s announcement highlights the government’s commitment to child safety, stating the need for immediate action in response to past oversights.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed these sentiments, describing the recent abuse reports as “shocking.” He remarked, “It’s hopeless, and we need to do better, quite clearly,” emphasizing that these revelations serve as a wake-up call for state and territory governments.
Calls for a unified working with children check have intensified since a 2015 royal commission into child sexual abuse made recommendations for such a system. Rowland acknowledged the slow pace of reform, noting it had been “let down by successive governments at all levels.” She assured that all states and territories are now united in their commitment to implement these urgent changes.
A recent inquiry revealed that many childcare centres have not been verifying whether their staff members are eligible to work with children, raising alarms about the safety of young Australians. Opposition education spokesman Jonno Duniam stressed the vital need for immediate and stronger measures to protect children in childcare settings.
As the nation prepares for the next meeting of education ministers scheduled for next week, discussions will center around additional child safety laws, including the potential implementation of CCTV in centres and mandatory child safety training for staff.
This reform is not just about policy; it’s about protecting the most vulnerable members of society. Parents and guardians across Australia are demanding accountability and assurance that their children are safe in childcare environments.
For those affected by child sexual abuse, support is available through 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Australia takes significant steps towards enhancing the safety of children in care.
