NSW Early Childhood Reforms: What's changing?

The NSW Government has vowed to implement a number of NSW Early Childhood Reforms in response to the Wheeler Review, which is an independent review into the NSW Early Childhood Education and Care Regulatory Authority.

Let's go through the reforms and see what could be changing soon.

1. Establishing an independent early childhood regulator

The NSW government will aim to introduce a new regulatory agency, separate from the NSW Department of Education, that will report directly to the Minister.

The standalone regulatory agency will have stronger powers and accountability for implementing laws and regulations for services in NSW.

2. A stronger 'right-to-know' for families

When a childcare provider or service is under investigation for significant breaches of the Education and Care Services National Law, the reforms will require them to notify families that an investigation is underway.

If an active criminal investigation is underway, families will be notified as soon as possible whilst protecting the integrity of criminal investigations.

3. Improved transparency

The new Regulatory Authority will be required to publish all relevant detailed information about service quality and safety performance to the extent of the National Law to help parents make informed decisions.

4. Amendments to the National Law

The NSW Government have proposed changes to the Education & Care Services National Law that includes:

• An increase to the penalties for breaches by individuals & services

• Placing children's safety as a 'paramount consideration' provision, ensuring child safety is at the heart of ECEC.

5. Trialling the use of CCTV

The new regulator may require the installation of CCTV cameras in the instances of safety concerns. The cameras will be controlled by the Regulatory Authority and be able to be reviewed to assist with investigating complaints and concerns.

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