Childcare worker charged over alleged assault of infant at Sydney service

A childcare worker has been charged after allegedly assaulting a 10-month-old child at an early childhood education and care service on Sydney's Northern Beaches.

NSW Police  said officers attached to Northern Beaches Police Area Command commenced an investigation on 9 June 2026 after receiving a report from management at a childcare centre in Warriewood.

According to police, concerns were raised about the conduct of a staff member, prompting an internal review and notification to authorities.

Police allege the 53-year-old woman assaulted a 10-month-old boy on two occasions while he was in her care at the service on 26 and 27 May 2026.

The woman's employment was terminated on 27 May after the matter was brought to the attention of senior staff, police said.

Following inquiries, detectives arrested the woman at a Mona Vale home at approximately 2.35pm on 11 June 2026.

She was taken to Manly Police Station and charged with five counts of common assault.

NSW Police confirmed the child did not suffer any injuries.

The woman was granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear before Manly Local Court on 15 July 2026.

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the alleged assaults are continuing.

The matter highlights the significant child safety responsibilities carried by approved providers and educators across Australia's early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector.

Under the National Quality Framework, approved providers must take all reasonable precautions to protect children from harm and hazards likely to cause injury. Child safety obligations are reflected throughout the National Quality Standard, including Quality Area 2, which focuses on children's health and safety, and Quality Area 7, which addresses governance and leadership.

Services are also required to maintain policies and procedures relating to child protection, educator conduct, supervision, incident management and complaints handling.

Where concerns arise regarding the conduct of an educator or staff member, approved providers are expected to assess the situation promptly and take appropriate steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children attending the service.

The National Law and Regulations place a strong emphasis on risk management, child protection and maintaining environments where children are safe, supported and protected from harm.

According to NSW Police, the investigation began after concerns were identified and reported by the service.

Sector stakeholders have long emphasised the importance of strong reporting cultures within education and care settings. Clear policies, effective supervision and a willingness to act when concerns are raised are widely recognised as critical elements of child-safe organisations.

The Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) has consistently highlighted the role of governance, leadership and professional conduct in supporting child safety outcomes across the sector.

While allegations involving educator misconduct attract significant community attention, they remain uncommon when considered against the size of Australia's ECEC sector, which supports the education and care of hundreds of thousands of children each day.

When concerns do arise, prompt action by services and authorities is an important part of ensuring appropriate oversight and maintaining public confidence in the sector.

The information in this article is drawn from the NSW Police media release.