Early childhood policy experts have backed the recommendations of a review into safety in Victoria’s early childhood education and care system, following high-profile allegations of abuse.

The Front Project has been advocating for the creation of a national commission to take responsibility for the sector, rather than leaving governments to “play whackamole with individual situations”.

CEO Dr Caroline Croser-Barlow said it was heartening to see Premier Jacinta Allan get behind the call for a National Commission, ahead of a meeting of state, territory and federal ministers on Friday. 

“The immediate actions announced by the Victorian Government today will provide comfort to parents. There are some critical reforms in this package, but more importantly, we welcome Victoria’s push for a long-term national solution” Dr Croser-Barlow said. “The review made clear that the best interests of children should be the guiding principle of every single decision that is made in early learning and care settings", and that “while the current market-driven model for early childhood education and care remains, the risks to quality and safety…will persist.” The safety of children must be paramount.

“We also know from Australian research that quality matters for children’s outcomes. That’s why it is encouraging to see a recommendation for the Commonwealth to fund a Child Care Quality Improvement Program.

Dr Croser-Barlow said quality has too often been the “missing middle” — falling between Commonwealth and state responsibilities, leaving children and families without consistent standards.

“The other key to safety is our educators. Thousands of hardworking, dedicated educators show up every day, but they need structured support to grow their skills and capability. Mandatory child-safe training for all staff, and paid professional development leave, are essential steps.”

This review highlights an opportunity for governments to move beyond short-term fixes and work together on a nationally coordinated approach that delivers both safety and quality in every service, for every child.

State, territory and federal education ministers will meet to discuss coordinated steps on child safety in Sydney on Friday.

ENDS

Media contact:

Rachel Wallbridge, Government Relations and Engagement Manager

0402 680 092

20 August 2025