In a move that has ignited national debate, Inspire Early Learning Journey has announced that male educators will no longer be permitted to change nappies or perform toileting duties at any of its 16 centres across Victoria. The decision, communicated in a letter to families, is being implemented immediately and has drawn both support and criticism from across the early childhood education sector.

A recent high-profile case in Melbourne has reignited fierce debate across Australia’s childcare sector: should men be banned from working in early childhood education settings?

Starting September 26, all childcare providers in Victoria will be required to adopt a strict ban on personal smartphones. Non-compliance could result in fines up to $50,000 and alterations to licensing conditions. Although personal device bans exist within national frameworks, enforcement has previously relied on individual centers—a shortfall the government is now determined to rectify.

In a sweeping reform aimed at strengthening child safety, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns has announced plans to ban appeals for individuals denied a Working With Children Check.

***WARNING: DISTRESSING CONTENT***  In response to alarming revelations of child abuse within early learning settings, the Victorian Government has announced sweeping changes to the state’s Working with Children Check (WWCC) laws—aimed at tightening safeguards and closing systemic loopholes.

****WARNING DISTRESSING CONTENT**** Authorities in Victoria have launched a sweeping public health and regulatory response after a childcare worker was charged with more than 70 offenses involving alleged child sexual abuse across multiple centres in Melbourne's south-west.

Educators, ECTs, and Trainees who are currently earning minimum wages from the Children's Services Award, Early Childhood Teacher's Award, and National Training Wage will now receive a 4.75% to their award rate, effective from the first full pay period from today, 01 July 2026. 

CCTV cameras will be installed in childcare centres across New South Wales as part of a broader effort to strengthen child safety and accountability across the sector. These cameras will be strategically placed in shared areas such as play zones, sleep rooms, and entry points—ensuring that children's experiences and educator practices are visible and transparent.

The NSW Government is rolling out urgent reforms in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector to better protect children and rebuild trust. These reforms respond directly to an increase in safety breaches during 2024. The following article provides information on What Actions Are Being Taken, Broader Commitments, Why now and more. 

Under the Children’s Services Award 2010, an allowance is payable to an educator formally appointed as the Educational Leader under Regulation 118 of the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011. From 01 July, the educational leader's allowance will be paid based on the number of days per week you are appointed in the Educational Leader role.