A Brisbane childcare provider has been fined $12,500 after a five-year-old child was discovered crossing busy roads alone. The incident occurred on February 17, 2023, when the child exited through an emergency door that led to street level from the centre, which is located above a shopping complex.
Shockingly, staff only realized the child was missing when the mother arrived for pick-up. The child had been unsupervised for between eight and 18 minutes and was eventually found by members of the public on Old Cleveland Road.
In Brisbane Magistrates Court, FEL Child Care Centres 3 Pty Ltd was found to have breached multiple obligations, including failure to supervise, prevent unauthorised exits, enforce policies, and maintain accurate records. Magistrate Belinda Merrin emphasized the seriousness of the incident, noting the child had previously attempted to leave the centre.
The Department of Education stated the fine reflects the gravity of the provider’s failure to ensure children’s safety.
In response, Busy Bees Australia released a statement expressing deep regret: “We are deeply sorry this happened and take full responsibility.”
The provider outlined several corrective measures now in place:
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Independent compliance review of the centre
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Installation of additional external CCTV
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Enhanced supervision training for staff
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Improved employee induction processes with comprehension checks
Busy Bees confirmed the incident was immediately reported to regulators and that families at the centre were notified.
Reference:
Brisbane Childcare Centre Cops $12,500 Fine After Young Child Found Alone On Busy Road