On Monday, the federal government announced new rules to boost safety in the early childhood sector.

From September there will be mandatory reporting of any allegations or incidents of child physical or sexual abuse within 24 hours. Currently there is a seven-day window.

On top of this, vapes will be banned from all early childhood services and there will be “stronger protections” around the photographing and filming of children. Services will be need to have clear policies on taking photos and videos of children, parent consent, CCTV use and using service-issued devices.

Next week, Australia’s education ministers will meet to discuss what else can be done to improve safety in childcare services. What do they need to consider?

This week’s changes stem from a 2023 review by the national early childhood quality authority, which highlighted serious concerns about childcare safety.

This found increasing reports of critical incidents in services relating to inappropriate discipline, inadequate supervision and harmful sexual behaviours.

Education Minister Jason Clare explained he set up the review, prompted by concerns for children’s safety. This included........

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