Background Checks in the Childcare sector : A Wake-Up Call for the Sector The early childhood sector is under national scrutiny again. This time, it's not just policy driving change, but public outcry. On 20 August 2025, Victoria released findings from its rapid review into early childhood safety, following disturbing revelations of serious abuse at multiple childcare services (The Guardian). The review found systemic failures in background screening and regulatory enforcement, prompting the state to announce a major overhaul of its child safety laws. Among the key issues: a childcare worker with a history of criminal behaviour was cleared to work, and multiple abuse allegations were mishandled due to poor internal reporting systems (ABC News). The Victorian Government has accepted all 21 review recommendations, including increased unannounced inspections, faster suspension powers, and mandatory public disclosure of breaches (Wyndham TV). While this latest case occurred in Victoria, the same risks exist elsewhere. That’s why the national reforms introduced earlier this year — from harmonised Working with Children Checks to compulsory child protection training — are more than just updates. They’re essential safeguards. With greater legal consequences for non-compliance, now is the time for childcare providers to ensure their employee screening, training, and reporting systems are watertight — because families, regulators, and the law are watching.

Start FY25-26 with a robust WHS risk review. Identify gaps, update safety practices, and drive compliance with smarter tools and better insights.