Affinity Education Group responds to new Queensland case involving former 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 prior to continuing to engage. A list of support services has been provided at the conclusion of the article.

Affinity Education Group has confirmed it is cooperating fully with Queensland Police following serious allegations involving a former educator at one of its early childhood education and care centres in Queensland.

The allegations relate to a specific incident involving one individual at Milestones Tingalpa. Affinity Education has emphasised that it reported the matter to the police and relevant regulatory bodies immediately upon becoming aware of the complaints. The individual was stood down straight away and has since had their employment terminated. The person held a current and valid Working with Children Check (WWCC).

In a statement, an Affinity Education Group spokesperson said:

“This matter is being taken extremely seriously, and we are providing our full cooperation to the Queensland Police.

The safety and wellbeing of all children and staff at our centres is our highest priority, and we will continue to co-operate with regulatory authorities and support our families and team during this time.

Upon becoming aware of complaints regarding the individual, we immediately reported the matter to the relevant authorities, including police, and stood down the individual.

As this is an active investigation, communications with parents regarding this matter is being managed by Queensland Police. 

We are supporting all families in any way we can, including offering counselling support services.”

Affinity Education has been guided by police on all communications to ensure the ongoing investigation is not compromised.

As part of its response, Affinity has also announced the introduction of strengthened child safety protocols across its national network. These include:

• Updated mandatory training for all staff on child safety policies and legal obligations
• Fast-tracking CCTV installation across all centres
• Inviting parental input on toileting and nappy change preferences
• National rollout of personal device lock boxes, following successful NSW trials
• Centre layout reviews to remove blind spots and enhance visibility
• Consultations with staff, families and regulators on further safety measures

These new measures build on existing practices already in place across Affinity services, such as a personal device ban in rooms since 2023, comprehensive screening procedures, and ongoing professional development in child protection and ethical care.

A communication sent to Milestones Tingalpa families on 17 July acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and confirmed that Queensland Police would make direct contact with any families believed to be impacted. Families not contacted by police are not considered affected at this time.

“We know this news will be distressing, and we want to acknowledge the deep concern it may cause for you and your family. The wellbeing of children in our care is our absolute priority,” the message stated.

“We have been given specific instructions by police about what we can communicate in order to avoid prejudicing their investigation, and we must follow these instructions.”

Affinity Education has made support services available to both families and staff, including access to counselling and employee assistance programs.

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

The matter remains under investigation by Queensland Police.