NSW Childcare Inquiry Uncovers Serious Breaches at Little Zak's Academy

An NSW parliamentary inquiry has revealed that Little Zak's Academy, a prominent childcare provider, received over $2.9 million in state funding despite multiple breaches of child safety regulations across its centres.

Alarming Incidents Across Multiple Locations

• At the Auburn centre, a child with a severe dairy allergy was fed milk products, violating health and safety protocols.
• In Wollongong, children fell from cots due to improperly fitted safety rails, and a staff member was reported to have physically restrained a distressed child.
• At the Newcastle centre, a child was discovered inside a washing machine cupboard, highlighting inadequate supervision.

Greens MP Abigail Boyd questioned the Department of Education’s due diligence in awarding funding to providers with poor compliance records. Education Secretary Murat Dizdar described the breaches as “shocking” and stated that services slow to improve had been “put on notice.”

Deputy Secretary Mark Barraket confirmed that NSW would coordinate with the federal government to revoke funding from non-compliant services. If federal childcare subsidies are withdrawn, NSW will also pull its “Start Strong” grants.

Following a review led by former deputy NSW Ombudsman Chris Wheeler, the state government committed to establishing a stronger, independent regulator. It also plans to propose tougher penalties under national regulations and may legislate independently if other states do not support the changes.

Little Zak's Academy acknowledged the incidents and stated it had implemented measures including staff training, upgraded safety equipment, and enhanced supervision protocols. The company emphasized its 30-year history and commitment to child care.

Reference:
NSW Inquiry Into Child Care Told Little Zak's Academy Received State Funding Despite Regulation Breaches