Affinity Education outlines safety review following criminal charges against ex-staff member

Before continuing to read this piece, readers should be aware that the content of this article may prove distressing, and should consider their own circumstances before continuing to engage. A list of support services has been provided at the conclusion of the article. 

Affinity Education Group released a public statement addressing criminal charges laid against a former educator, who has pleaded not guilty, and who previously worked at Affinity centres. The group says it is cooperating fully with authorities and will fast-track enhanced safety protocols in response to the case.

Affinity Education Group has expressed deep distress following charges laid against the former educator.

In a statement released on the 2 and 9 July 2025, Affinity CEO Tim Hickey said the organisation is “deeply sorry for the distress this is causing our families no family should have to go through this.” He confirmed the group is cooperating with Victoria Police and undertaking a comprehensive internal review to support the investigation.

Affinity was first briefed on the matter on 1 July and has since reviewed rosters, staffing records and centre data to assist authorities. However, according to a recent ABC report, a planned parent meeting at one of the affected centres was cancelled, leaving families “angry and frustrated”.

The group’s response follows earlier public safety commitments made by G8 Education, which announced the roll-out of CCTV and intimate care arrangements for children and families.

This is not the first time Affinity has faced public scrutiny over safety and compliance. In March 2025, following an ABC Four Corners investigation into the early childhood sector, Affinity issued a public statement reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy for child harm and highlighting investments of over $70 million in compliance, care and systems over the past three years. The organisation acknowledged the issues raised in the program and committed to improving consistency of standards across its network.

As part of its own response in the latest allegations, Affinity is introducing a strengthened suite of child safety measures:

• Fast-tracking CCTV installation across all centres
• Offering families input into who supports their child with toileting and nappy changes
• Requiring all staff to store personal devices in secure lock boxes before shifts
• Providing mandatory refresher training on child safety and reporting obligations
• Auditing centre layouts to eliminate blind spots and improve visibility
• Consulting with families, staff and regulators on further safety enhancements

These initiatives expand on existing protocols, including a 2023 ban on personal devices in rooms, enhanced screening processes, and ongoing staff training. Affinity reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to abuse and reaffirmed that “the safety, wellbeing and development of every child must always come first.”

Sector Publishing sought further comment from Affinity Education Group. A spokesperson advised that the public statement linked above is the most recent update provided to the media.

If you, or someone you know, is impacted by child sexual abuse or online exploitation, support services are available.

If you suspect child abuse or neglect at a childcare centre in NSW, contact the Child Protection Helpline on 132 111 or call police.