In recent years, the early childhood education and care sector has faced a troubling rise in fraudulent qualifications, a threat not only to professional integrity but also to the safety and wellbeing of children. From forged certificates to unaccredited training providers, the issue has triggered national investigations and sweeping reforms.
Why It Matters
Early childhood educators play a critical role in shaping children’s development, safety, and emotional well-being. When individuals enter the sector without proper training or assessment, it undermines trust, risks harm, and devalues the work of qualified professionals.
Major Cases and Crackdowns
- 25,000 Fake Certifications Cancelled
In a sweeping investigation, the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) revoked over 25,000 qualifications across sectors, including childcare, after uncovering widespread malpractice among private training providers. Many certificates were issued without proper training, assessment, or placement.
- Over 10,000 ECEC Qualifications Revoked in 2024
Providers like Luvium Pty Ltd and Gills College were found to have issued early childhood credentials without meeting national standards. ASQA’s crackdown exposed systemic gaps in transparency and student support.
- CCS Fraud and Fake Enrolments
The Department of Education has documented cases where individuals submitted false enrolments and care sessions to claim Child Care Subsidy (CCS) payments, including one case involving 62 children and over $465,000 in fraudulent claims.
How to Report Fake Childcare or Education Certificates
1. Report to ASQA (Australian Skills Quality Authority)
ASQA is the national regulator for vocational education and training (VET) providers. If you suspect a person or organisation is involved in:
- Selling fake certificates
- Offering training without proper accreditation
- Falsifying placement or assessment records
You can submit a report here: ASQA Report Form asqaportal.asqa.gov.au
2. Tip-Off to the Department of Education (for CCS-related fraud)
If the fraudulent activity relates to Child Care Subsidy (CCS) claims—for example, someone using fake qualifications to work in a CCS-approved service, you can report it via a confidential tip-off:
Report CCS Fraud Department of Education
3. National Training Complaints Hotline
For broader concerns about training providers or unethical practices, you can contact the National Training Complaints Hotline:
13 38 73
This service helps direct your complaint to the right authority.
What to Include in Your Report
- Name of the person or agency involved
- Type of qualification being sold
- Any documents, screenshots, or messages as evidence
- How you became aware of the issue
- Why you believe the qualification is fraudulent
You can remain anonymous if needed, but detailed information helps regulators investigate more effectively.
Further Reading
Fraudulent and Improper Qualifications In Childcare
Over 10,000 Early Childhood Education and Care Qualifications Revoked In 2024
Detecting Fast-Tracked Early Childhood Qualifications in Interviews