Queensland will take a national lead in child safety with the introduction of mandatory child safety training for all early childhood education and care (ECEC) services across Australia. This landmark initiative, led by the Crisafulli Government, aims to ensure every child in care is protected and supported in a safe, respectful environment.
The nationally consistent training is now required under the Education and Care Services National Law for anyone working or volunteering in early childhood settings, whether they have direct contact with children or not. Staff and volunteers will have six months to complete foundation-level training, with advanced courses rolling out in July 2026.
This initiative has been shaped by insights from survivors of child abuse and neglect, alongside early childhood experts, ensuring the training addresses real-world risks and equips staff with the knowledge and confidence to act when children are at risk.
The $1.85 million investment by the Crisafulli Government has enabled collaboration with the Australian Centre for Child Protection to develop high-quality, accessible training via the Australian Government’s Geccko platform. The training covers building a child-safe culture, understanding child safety and wellbeing, recognizing abuse and neglect, harmful sexual behaviours, professional boundaries, and mandatory reporting obligations.
The training applies to all personnel in ECEC services, including managers, supervisors, staff, family day care educators, and volunteers. Providers who fail to ensure their staff complete the training will face penalties, underscoring the government’s commitment to a safe and accountable sector.
With this nation-leading initiative, Queensland is setting a benchmark for child safety, creating a stronger, safer foundation for the next generation.
