ACA Qld welcomes decisive action on child safety following sector-wide concerns

In response to recent and distressing allegations of child abuse within early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings, the Australian Childcare Alliance Queensland (ACA Qld) has publicly welcomed strong and immediate action from the Queensland Government. A high-level roundtable convened in Far North Queensland this week has marked a significant step in uniting peak bodies and policymakers around a shared commitment to child safety.

Thursday 10 July, as the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector confronts deeply distressing allegations of child abuse, the Australian Childcare Alliance Queensland (ACA Qld) has welcomed the Queensland Government’s swift response and renewed commitment to safeguarding children.

An urgent roundtable was convened yesterday in Far North Queensland, bringing together key stakeholders, including peak ECEC bodies such as ACA Qld, to discuss strengthening safety measures and compliance within the sector.

“The Australian Childcare Alliance Queensland congratulates the Minister for organising the roundtable event so quickly,” said ACA Qld President, Majella Fitzsimmons. “There was a unanimous understanding yesterday that there is no quick-fix solution. We recognise there is no silver bullet, but we must ensure a culture of child safety and protection. If you see it, say it and report it.”

In a further demonstration of its commitment, the Queensland Government recently announced a $12.7 million investment into its early childhood regulatory authority. This funding will enable the employment of 29 additional full-time regulatory officers, significantly boosting the capacity for safety visits and compliance checks across Queensland.

Earlier this year, the Government also introduced the Statement of Shared Commitment, a unified pledge to foster child-safe cultures across all ECEC services in Queensland, underpinned by the principle that “every interaction counts.”

“To create a child-safe culture, we need leadership commitment and the Queensland Government has shown it’s willing to lead,” continued Majella. “The next step is ensuring a workforce that understands, practices, and lives this commitment, so that children don’t just hear about safety, they experience it every day.”

ACA Qld remains steadfast in its belief that child protection must remain the sector’s highest priority.

“There is no greater responsibility than keeping children safe,” said Majella. “A nation that protects its children protects its future.”

As the sector continues to respond with urgency and care, ACA Qld has reaffirmed its commitment to work alongside the Queensland Government, regulatory bodies, and educators to uphold the highest standards of safety and wellbeing for all children attending early learning services.

For more information visit ACA QLD website.