New research explores child safety in early education and care and why culturally relevant support matters

A new collection of research insights highlights the importance of improving child safety in early education and care (ECEC), with findings from Victoria offering valuable lessons for national reforms.

Published this month as part of a regular series by the Australian Child and Family Research Network, the quick-read articles offer timely summaries of recent research affecting children, young people and families across Australia.

Among the featured topics is an evidence-informed discussion on strengthening child safety in early learning environments, a timely resource for services and leaders navigating child-safe reforms and mandatory training developments in 2025.

The summary draws on Victorian experience, where policy and practice shifts have aimed to embed the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and promote preventative, inclusive approaches across ECEC settings.

While each article in the series addresses a different area of child wellbeing, several are directly relevant to ECEC professionals, including:

• Improving child safety in early education and care – what works and what can be learned from recent reforms in Victoria.
• Designing early support that’s culturally relevant – evidence on why place-based, community-led programs matter for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.
• Why investment in community-controlled organisations works – reinforcing the importance of First Nations leadership in child and family services.

The briefings may support professional learning, inform quality improvement planning, and contribute to discussions around culturally safe and responsive practice in ECEC settings.

The short, accessible format is designed to support busy professionals by translating complex research into practical, sector-specific takeaways.

To read the latest research briefings, visit: Australian Child and Family Research Network.