Child protection policy.

Child Protection Reporting Overview

Notifications of harm, abuse or neglect

If you believe a child is in immediate danger, contact the Police now by calling 000

Report to the Police on 131 444 if a child has been or may be the victim of a criminal offence, including a sexual offence

Report to the Child Protection Helpline on 132 111 (24 hours/7 days) If you form a reasonable suspicion that a child has been abused or neglected, is at risk of abuse or neglect, or is otherwise at risk of significant harm.

Or make an e-report if notification is not urgent

https://reporter.childstory.nsw.gov.au/s/

Notify the regulatory authority – NSW Early Learning Commission of suspected/alleged abuse at service, including physical or sexual abuse.

If employees/volunteers are involved, notify the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian of any notifiable offence under the Reportable Conduct Scheme.

All decisions and actions related to the operation and delivery of education and care services are required to consistently prioritise children’s safety, rights and best interests above all other considerations. The paramount consideration of children’s safety, rights and best interests is a statutory duty.

"Child abuse may be defined as intentional, physical and/or emotional maltreatment of a child by an adult, usually a person responsible for the child's well-being." Feeney/Christensen/Moravcik (1991:391).

Significant harm is defined as: “a concern about a child or young person that is sufficiently serious to warrant a response by a statutory authority irrespective of a family’s consent. It is something that is not minor or trivial and may be reasonably expected to produce a substantial and demonstrably adverse impact on the child or young person’s safety, welfare, or wellbeing. In addition, it can result from a single act or omission or an accumulation of these”.

(Child Story Reporter Website)

The Child Protection Policy sets out our service’s obligations, plans and procedures to protect children from any type of harm, abuse or neglect. It expresses our commitment to, and processes for, maintaining a child safe culture and environment (online and physical). It provides guidance about how our service will identify, manage and respond to risks, and suspected or actual cases, of harm, abuse or neglect - including when and how to report to the Police and other authorities.

Purpose: The educators at the centre are committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of children at all times, both within and outside the centre. Educators see the importance of educating children to be aware of the value of their bodies and their emotional wellbeing so they will not passively allow themselves to be hurt by others. Educators are also aware that children need to be taught that they have the right to accept or reject physical contact.

Aim

• For the educators to be aware of the varying forms of child abuse to ensure the protection, health, and safety of children at all times.

• For educators to be aware of procedures for reporting suspicions of abuse of a child or risk of significant harm to a child.

• To ensure that all educators, students, and volunteers are subject to screening and prohibited persons declarations. Office of the Children’s Guardian – https://ocg.nsw.gov.au

• For all educators,

Implementation

The safety, health and well-being of children is a shared responsibility and is the number one priority for all staff, students and volunteers at our service. We have zero tolerance for any form of harm or abuse to children and are committed to acting in children’s best interests, and in accordance with laws and regulations. All decisions and actions related to the operation and delivery of education and care services are required to consistently prioritise children’s safety, rights and best interests above all other considerations.

Child safety is relevant to all of our service’s operations and program and, therefore, it is embedded in our policies and procedures. In particular, this Child Protection Policy should be understood and used alongside our Child Safe Policy, which explains our commitment to meet the NSW Child Safe Standards.

This Child Protection Policy covers the following areas:

• The Code of Conduct

• Risk assessments

• Indicators of harm, abuse and neglect

• Child Protection procedures:

  • Procedures for managing and recording incidents, disclosures and suspicions of harm, abuse or neglect

  • Procedures for managing harmful sexual behaviour in children

  • Procedure for making a report

• Exchanging information

• Confidentiality, record keeping, safeguards for reporters and support

• Information sharing, training and monitoring

• Roles and responsibilities

Code of Conduct

Our service upholds the Code of Conduct (located in our Educator and Management Policy) for employers, educators, volunteers, students, families and children to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children.

The Code of Conduct describes what is acceptable behaviour towards children. We expect a high level of professionalism, ethical behaviour and standards at our service, and we will act upon any behaviour that does not meet our expectations.

Inappropriate Conduct

Section 166A makes it an offence for anyone involved in the provision of education and care to subject a child to inappropriate conduct. This includes approved providers, nominated supervisors, educators (including casual, agency or relief staff and students), other staff, volunteers and family day care educators.

Section 5AA defines ‘inappropriate conduct’ as:

conduct a reasonable person would consider to be inappropriate in an education and care service.

It also sets out factors that must be considered when determining whether conduct is inappropriate, including:

• whether the behaviour is consistent with expected practice in ECEC settings

• the child’s age and stage of development

• whether the conduct is likely to cause emotional, psychological or physical harm

• the intent or purpose of the behaviour, particularly if it could be perceived as violent or sexual in nature.

A child’s consent – or perceived consent by a staff member – is not relevant in determining whether conduct is inappropriate.

A child may be subjected to inappropriate conduct:

• in person, either directly or by witnessing it happen to others

• through verbal or electronic communication

• by electronic capture, including photographs, recordings or live video

• through repeated actions or ongoing patterns of behaviour over time.

Risk assessments

(Note - certain activities may have specific regulatory requirements for risk assessments, so other policies and procedures should be implemented alongside this one, e.g., Excursion Policy).

The approved provider must ensure that regular risk assessments are conducted to identify risks of any activity or environment (physical and online) that could result in harm, neglect or abuse (including grooming and sexual abuse) of children. Our service will collaborate with staff and, where possible, families on risk assessments. We may seek feedback via newsletters or survey forms, or during parent information sessions.

Risk Assessment areas to consider

Situational risk

• The physical and online environment of the service itself, for example:

  • Whether it allows for adults to be alone with children, unseen by others

  • Whether educators have a ‘line of sight’

  • Location/layout of children’s toilets and nappy changing areas

  • Location/layout of sleep and rest areas

  • Playgrounds and play equipment

  • Temporary renovations

  • Photography, phone, tablet and social media usage

  • Heavy furniture, windows, stairs, outdoor environment

• Specific activities (e.g., nappy changing, using the toilet, rest and sleep, special events with visitors, transitions, travelling to other care and education services, use of dangerous equipment, outdoor vs indoor play, excursions, managing medications, managing illness and injury, emergencies)

• The type of contact between an adult and a child during an activity (e.g., does it involve physical contact as in changing a nappy or comforting a child, could the interaction result in an emotional dependence on adults?)

• Supervision arrangements (e.g., ratios, during different activities, natural lines of sight – note, this should be balanced with a child’s right to privacy and their need for risky play which allows them to temporarily ‘disappear’).

Vulnerability risk

• Children who, in general, are more vulnerable to the risk of harm or abuse are:

  • From Indigenous backgrounds

  • With disability

  • Newly arrived in Australia

  • From culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

  • Identifying as LGBTIQ/non-binary/gender diverse/unsure of sexuality or gender

  • From trauma, abuse or neglect backgrounds

  • Living out of home, including in foster care

  • Experiencing poor mental or physical health.

Propensity risk

• The profile of adults who are involved with children at our service

• Types of people who are attracted to working in the care and education sector

• How inappropriate behaviour is dealt with

• The attitudes of adults towards children in our service.

Institutional risk

• Internal structures that may lead to abuse or harm (e.g., strong hierarchical structure, authoritarian management, close-knit relationships – deep friendships or families)

• Culture (e.g., attitudes towards children, valuing reputation above the safety of children, inclusive or discriminatory)

• Attitudes about whose job it is to be responsible for child safety.

Procedure: We will ensure a safe environment is created for the educators and children by:

• Ensuring that the Approved Provider, Nominated Supervisor, Responsible Persons, educators, students, and volunteers have completed a Working with Children Check (WWCC) prior to commencing at the centre and that this Working With Children Check has been verified prior to the person commencing working with children in the centre.

• The Approved Provider/Nominated Supervisor must check all educators on the NQAITS Portal during the recruitment process for any prohibition notices issued to an individual. The results of these checks should be kept in the educators staff file.

• Educators will be required to complete a Prohibition Notice Declaration Form and a Compliance History Form prior to working in one of our centres.

• Ensuring that children are supervised at all times.

• Ensuring that the physical environment is safe by completing relevant safety checks and carry out maintenance, as necessary.

• Providing educator training in child protection.

• From February 27^th 2026 all educators must register for Mandatory Child Safety Training through the Gekko training platform. This training is mandatory and must be completed throughout the year by persons with management or control, nominated supervisors, persons in day-to-day charge, Family Day Care Educators, other staff, volunteers and students.

• Ensuring that all educators are aware of the centres’ procedures for reporting suspected child abuse and neglect or risk of significant harm and understand their responsibilities under the child protection legislation as stated in the Education and Care Services National Regulations.

• Educators see the importance of educating children to be aware of the value of their bodies and emotional wellbeing so they will not passively allow themselves to be hurt by others. Educators are also aware that children need to be taught that they have the right to accept or reject physical contact.

• To ensure that all responsible persons in day-to-day charge of the centre and nominated supervisor(s) hold current child protection training qualifications.

Indicators of harm, abuse and neglect and children

Behavioural or physical signs which assist in recognising harm to children are known as indicators. A list of indicators of harm, abuse (including sexual abuse and grooming) and neglect are attached to this policy. The list is meant as a guide only. One indicator on its own may not imply abuse or neglect. However, a single indicator can be as important as the presence of several indicators. Each indicator needs to be considered in the context of other indicators and the child’s circumstances.

Remember, also, that a child's behaviour is likely to be affected if he/she is under stress. There can be many causes of stress and it is important to find out specifically what is causing the stress. Harm, abuse and neglect can be single incidents or ongoing, and may be intentional or unintentional.

Register of Child Protection Concerns

When reporting suspected child abuse, harm or neglect – all notifications must be recorded on the Register of Child Protection Concerns template (see end of document for template):

At a minimum, this register must record all child safety and child protection reports made to:

· NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian (OCG)

· NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ)

· NSW Early Learning Commission

· NSW Police

This includes all suspicions, allegations or disclosures of child abuse, neglect or harm that are reported in accordance with the NSW Early Learning Commission’s reporting guide and relevant legislation. It also includes notifications made in relation to serious incidents (Section 174), inappropriate conduct (Section 166A) and negative notices (Section 174AB).

Harm, abuse or neglect can be:

• Witnessed

• Disclosed by a child, parent, staff member or community member. A disclosure of harm, abuse or neglect occurs when someone tells you about harm, abuse or neglect that has happened, is happening, or is likely to happen to a child. A disclosure can also be about a child harming or abusing another child

• Suspected - a suspicion of harm, abuse or neglect is when someone has a reasonable suspicion that a child has suffered, is suffering, or is at an unacceptable risk of suffering harm, or abuse or neglect. A suspicion can also be about a child harming or abusing another child.

How to report risk of significant harm, abuse and neglect

If the child or young person is in immediate danger contact 000

Reports to the child protection helpline must be made over the phone where the child is at a high or imminent risk of significant harm due to:

• Serious physical injury to a child or young person requiring medical attention.

• Serious neglect to a child or young person of an immediate nature.

• Domestic violence involving serious injury and/or use of a weapon.

• Sexual harm involving serious current concern.

• A high-risk prenatal report where the birth is imminent.

• Immediate safety issues.

The report concerns:

• A group of children/ young people other than a sibling group.

• A child or young person who resides outside NSW.

• An alleged person causing harm who has access to the child AND there is concern that the child may experience harm in the foreseeable future.

• Complex information which is more easily communicated verbally than in writing.

• The reporter is unsure how to interpret the MRG outcome and needs to discuss with a Helpline caseworker.

• All educators who work in children’s services are mandatory reporters. A mandatory reporter is required by law to make a report to the Child Protection Helpline 132111 if they have current concerns about the safety, welfare, or wellbeing of a child.

• If educators have suspicions of a child being at risk of significant harm through any form of abuse or neglect they must inform the Director, General Manager and/or Approved Provider first, and use the Mandatory Reporter Guide on the Child Story Reporter website – https://reporter.childstory.nsw.gov.au/s/ to help determine whether to make a formal report by calling: Child Protection Helpline 132111 or to keep documenting.

• Educators must document any information which may be relevant to the matter.

• Educators should not consult directly with the parents in this matter. This is to be done by the proper authorities.

Mandatory Reporter Guide (MRG)

The MRG is an interactive online guide for mandatory reporters to determine whether their concerns about a child or young person meet the risk of significant harm threshold. It is important to remember that the MRG is not a replacement for professional judgement of professionals but a tool to support your decision making. The MRG is available on the Child Story Reporter website – https://reporter.childstory.nsw.gov.au/s/

To complete the MRG

Step 1 – choose a decision tree.

Step 2 – answer the questions using the definitions carefully. Remember the tips to using the definitions.

Step 3 – continue to answer YES or NO to questions based on your reading of the definitions until you reach the MRG Final Decision Point.

Step 4 – depending on the Final Decision recommended by the MRG, either make a report to the child protection helpline or seek additional assistance and support from the Centre Director or General Manager.

(KTS Training for the Early Childhood Sector Participant’s Guide 2010 p.7)

If in doubt report your suspicions to the child protection helpline 132 111.

eReporting

- Child Protection reports can be directly submitted as an eReport through the ChildStory Reporter website (https://reporter.childstory.nsw.gov.au/s/). An eReport should only be used if the concern is non-urgent. Mandatory reporter will need to register first to submit an eReport. Once registered, mandatory reporters:

• can create eReports after running the MRG (if the MRG outcome is Report to Department of Communities and Justice or Refer to CWU).

• will be notified by email when there is a change of status for one of their reports.

• can log into the ChildStory Reporter Community website to see the status of any previous reports they have submitted.

(https:/reporter.childstory.nsw.gov.au)

Procedure for managing harmful sexual behaviour in children

Some children may exhibit harmful sexual behaviour while they are in our care. This behaviour can be self-directed and/or directed at other children and adults. It can extend to sexually abusing other children. Our service is required by law to have policies and procedure in place for dealing with children exhibiting harmful sexual behaviour.

“Harmful sexual behaviours in children” is a broad term that is used to describe a range of concerning and serious sexual behaviour displayed by children and young people. The behaviour may be:

• Coercive or involve bribery and/or aggression

• Clandestine and/or aggressive/predatory

• Abnormal for the child’s age/developmental stage

• Compulsive, excessive and/or degrading

• Present when it involves another child that is significantly different in age/developmental to the individual

• Self-directed or directed at others

Children and young people display a range of sexual behaviours. Most of the time these are age-appropriate, and generally consistent with the child’s developmental stage and the context in which they are growing up (e.g., living in a society where they are regularly exposed to sexualised imagery used in popular culture or in marketing, online material, and the influences of a child’s religious/cultural backgrounds etc). Along the spectrum of behaviours are those that are concerning and those that are serious. Examples of behaviours across the spectrum is available in the South Australian Government’s Guide to problem sexual behaviour in children and young people.

Allegations of harmful sexual behaviour in children require an immediate response.

If a child is exhibiting harmful sexual behaviour, and/or if the child is suspected of sexually abusing another child, the nominated supervisor and other staff will:

• Give protection to any child in immediate danger and contact 000

• Follow the procedure below

• Record incidents using the form available in our Incident, Injury, Trauma and Illness Policy

• Record disclosures and suspicions

• Follow the Procedure for making a report above

• Manage risks to children/adults at our service pending the outcome of any investigations, e.g.,:

  • Suspend/exclude the child from the service

  • Restricting the child’s contact with other children or only allow them to have supervised contact

  • Restricting their access to sensitive computer systems, files or facilities (if applicable).

If a child exhibits serious harmful sexual behaviours:

• Immediately intervene to protect victim/s. If necessary, call 000

• If a child directs harmful sexual behaviour towards an adult at the service, the adult must immediately physically distance themselves from the child and tell the child that the behaviour must stop. This should be done in a sensitive and respectful manner

• Make a report in line with our Procedure for making a report (see attached). For example, it may involve contacting police/ Child Protection Helpline, depending on the behaviour

• Follow instructions from police/ Child Protection Helpline and do not investigate the incident unless allowed

• The first responder should not try to interview any children. Interviews should only be conducted by the nominated supervisor/approved provider and under instruction from the Police/ Child Protection Helpline. Interviews can be traumatising for a child so we must try to limit them

• Keep the child supervised and supported

• Keep the victim supervised and supported. Reassure them and respond to their needs

• When talking or interviewing people involved, the nominated supervisor/approved provider will:

  • Reassure the child or adult

  • Find a private place to talk

  • Remain calm and listen in an attentive, active and non-judgemental way

  • Encourage the person (including a child) to talk in their own words

  • Take anything a child says seriously

  • Allow children to be part of decision-making processes where appropriate

  • Ask just enough open-ended questions to act protectively without asking any leading questions which suggest an answer and could compromise later investigations

  • Tell the person they have done the right thing in revealing the information and they’ll need to tell someone who can help keep the suspected victim safe

• Contact the parents of the child and any other child who has been impacted

• Immediately secure evidence such as CCTV footage, emails, computers (where applicable)

• Document the incident using our Accident, Illness, Injury form as soon as possible so the details are accurately captured, including:

  • Time, date, location and who was present

  • Full details of the behaviour/incident

  • Staff/volunteers/students’ actions in response

• Manage risks to children/adults at our service pending the outcome of any investigations. Responses should be appropriate to the risk posed. E.g.:

  • Suspending/excluding the child from the service

  • Restricting the child’s contact with other children or only allow them to have supervised contact

  • Restricting access to sensitive computer systems, files or facilities (if applicable).

• If the child remains at the service, establish a behaviour support plan in consultation with family services/child’s parents/professionals

• Ensure the management and storage of records complies with our Privacy and Confidentiality Policy and Record Keeping and Retention Policy

If a child exhibits concerning harmful sexual behaviours:

• Intervene to protect other children

• If a child directs harmful sexual behaviour towards an adult at the service, the adult must immediately physically distance themselves from the child and tell the child that the behaviour must stop. This should be done in a sensitive and respectful manner

• Contact parents of the child

• Discuss with the child why the behaviour is unacceptable

• Depending on the situation and how serious the behaviour is, consider:

  • Creating restricted areas/activities for the child

  • How the child will be monitored and supervised

  • Suspending/excluding the child from the service

• Document the behaviour using our Accident, Illness, Injury form as soon as possible so the details are accurately captured, including:

  • Time, date, location and who was present

  • Full details of the behaviour/incident

  • Staff/volunteers/students’ actions in response

• Manage risks to children/adults at our service pending the outcome of any investigations. Responses should be appropriate to the risk posed. E.g.:

  • Suspending/excluding the child from the service

  • Restricting the child’s contact with other children or only allow them to have supervised contact

  • Restricting access to sensitive computer systems, files or facilities (if applicable)

• Confirm with the police/welfare authority that our proposed actions are appropriate

• Exchange information with other relevant agencies/professionals if appropriate and permitted

• Arrange a meeting with parents of the child to discuss any immediate responses and ongoing options for support for the child/family, such as a behaviour support plan

• Ensure the management and storage of records complies with our Privacy and Confidentiality Policy and Record Keeping and Retention Policy

Supporting children, staff and families who have been impacted by another child’s harmful sexual behaviour:

• Assess and respond to the needs of anyone who has been impacted

• Inform other parents that their child was/may have been impacted by the harmful sexual behaviour or witnessed the behaviour; and that accounts of the behaviour might be circulating amongst other parents. Do not disclose the name of the children involved

• Remain calm and listen in an attentive, active and non-judgemental way

• Take anything a child says seriously

• If the child has reported the behaviour to a staff or family member, tell them they have done the right thing

• Help children to know how to respond to questions that other children ask about the incident and which staff member will be supporting them

• Allow children and families to be part of decision-making processes where appropriate

• Communicate to children and parents what action is being taken and what they can expect to happen next, including timeframes

• Where applicable, advise parents that the police or welfare authority may need to interview their child

• Provide referrals to support agencies/counselling services

• Arrange a meeting with the parents to discuss implementing a safety plan for children at the service

Sharing information with other organisations in regard to the safety, welfare, or wellbeing of a child at the centre

Child Protection Agencies

The following agencies have responsibilities regarding child protection. Our service will liaise with these services and agencies should child protection become an issue at our service.

Child Protection Helpline: Department of Communities and Justice

• Receive, assess, and where appropriate investigate reports of children who are at risk of significant harm.

• May plan, conduct, and manage Reports in conjunction with other agencies including NSW Police and NSW Health.

• Exchange relevant information with a range of agencies including NSW Police, NSW Health and the NSW Early Learning Commission.

• Provide, arrange, and request care and/or support for children and families.

• Inform reporting agencies of the progress and outcomes of assessments and investigations as permitted by law.

Child Wellbeing Unit

Child Wellbeing Units have been established in the four government agencies with the largest number of child protection reports. These include the Department of Education and Communities and the Department of Communities and Justice. They can be contacted through the Department’s switchboard or contact details are available in the resources section of the ChildStory Reporter website.

NSW Reportable Conduct Scheme

The Reportable Contact Scheme has now been transferred to the Office of the Children’s Guardian under the new Children’s Guardian Act 2019.

The Scheme monitors how organisations investigate and report on certain conduct (known as ‘reportable allegations’ and ‘reportable convictions’) made against their employees, volunteers or certain contractors who provide services to children.

When the head of an organisation (called a ‘relevant entity’) becomes aware of a reportable allegation or a reportable conviction, the head of that entity must:

• Notify the Office of the Children’s Guardian within 7 business days of receiving a report or otherwise becoming aware of reportable allegations/convictions (see next section) using the 7-day notification form that’s available on the Office of the Children’s Guardian website https://ocg.nsw.gov.au and take action to protect children. Information must include type of reportable conduct and details of allegation/conviction, employee/volunteer/contractor’s name, date of birth and working with children number, whether police or child protection helpline have been notified and the report reference number if known, nature of initial risk assessment and risk management action taken to protect children, employee subject of report, other parties and allow proper investigation of the allegation (eg employee has been moved), name and contact details of the service and Approved Provider, and any other places the employee/volunteer works or volunteers at if known.

  • As part of initial risk assessment consider whether/when to give employee written notice that they have notified the Office of the Children’s Guardian about a reportable allegation/conviction involving the employee. Do not notify employee if doing so would compromise the investigation (eg could they destroy evidence) or put a person’s health or safety at risk. Include any submission an employee/volunteer may make after being notified about the Report

  • Consult with Police or Child Protection after making report if allegation is a criminal offence or they’re already investigating to ensure your investigation will not prejudice police investigation or court proceedings

• Investigate an allegation of reportable conduct as soon as possible after completing investigation plan (see Fact Sheet 4 Planning and Conducting an Investigation Office of the Children’s Guardian.) Note a finding of reportable conduct must be made if ‘on the balance of probabilities’ the allegation has been proven. When assessing this, the Approved Provider must consider the gravity of the allegations, and whether they breach professional standards, codes of conduct or accepted community standards.

  • keep appropriate records including accurate account of allegation, initial response to allegation, notifications made to Police and Child Protection, plan for carrying out investigation, initial risk assessment, decisions and actions taken in relation to employee/volunteer/contractor and child both during investigation and when finalised, interview questions, answers and details of interview (eg attendees, start and end times), final report (and interim report if relevant)

  • protect the identity of employees/volunteers/contractors as much as possible during the investigation by ensuring only people who need to know about the investigation are told about it and have access to records, they are advised about the need to ensure confidentiality and that breaches of confidentiality will be taken seriously, investigated using Service grievance procedures with potential disciplinary action a possibility. Do not release records to any public or private sector agency without first obtaining consent from the Children’s Guardian. Note reportable conduct allegations and records should be stored separately from the employee’s personnel file. Ensure procedural fairness (see Fact Sheets 4 and 8. General information | Reportable Conduct fact sheets | Office of the Children's Guardian)

  • help any employee/volunteer subject to allegations access appropriate support/counselling, provide support to alleged child victims and their families, and any others involved in reportable incidents if appropriate

  • suspend volunteers and contractors pending outcome of investigation, and ensure employees subject to allegations are supervised at all times. Seek legal advice if relevant about restricting person’s duties or putting them on leave with/without pay.

• Take action to protect children following investigation (complete a final risk assessment) and provide a final report of the findings and action taken (include any disciplinary action taken or proposed and reasons for taking or not taking action) to the Children’s Guardian within 30 calendar days of becoming aware of reportable conduct, or if the investigation is ongoing, an interim report explaining why the investigation has not been completed and an estimated timeframe.

  • An interim report must include the facts and circumstances of the reportable conduct, action taken since the first report, further action proposed or why no further action will be taken, and the reasons for the actions taken or proposed

  • A final report must include the facts and circumstances of the reportable conduct, whether the alleged reportable conduct was found to have occurred, a copy of any written submission made by the employee /volunteer/contractor and any other relevant documents, information about what action has or will be taken including any disciplinary action or training for employee, any counselling or support for child victims, any training for employees eg in child protection, changes to policies or processes, whether information was referred to another organisation or if/why no further action will be taken

  • Provide written advice to employee about outcomes of investigation and consequences. Also advise investigation findings and outcomes to the alleged victim and their parent/carer unless this not in public interest (see Fact Sheet 7).

Reportable Allegations/Conduct involving Employees, Volunteers and Contractors

The Approved Provider must report allegations of reportable conduct, or convictions involving reportable conduct (includes findings of guilt without actual conviction) involving employees, volunteers, or contractors required to hold working with children checks, to the Children’s Guardian whether or not the conduct occurred inside or outside the workplace, or occurred when the person was not an employee.

Any employee, volunteer or contractor who becomes aware of a reportable allegation or conviction must inform the Approved Provider (or the Children’s Guardian if the matter involves the Approved Provider).

Reportable conduct includes sexual offences, sexual misconduct, ill-treatment, neglect or assault of a child, an offence under s 43B (failure to protect) or s 316A (failure to report) of the Crimes Act 1900, and behaviour that causes significant emotional or psychological harm to a child. A more detailed description of each type of conduct is available on the Office of the Children’s Guardian website https://ocg.nsw.gov.au The Office has a series of Fact Sheets to assist services understand their responsibilities under the Reportable Conduct Scheme General information | Reportable Conduct fact sheets | Office of the Children's Guardian

The Office of the Children’s Guardian

The Office of the Children’s Guardian is an independent government agency that works to protect children by promoting and regulating quality, child safe organisations and services. One of its roles is administering the Working with Children Check.

Children’s services employees must report findings of sexual misconduct and serious physical assault involving children by a child related worker to the Office of the Children’s Guardian. See the Fact Sheet ‘Information for reporting bodies’ at https://ocg.nsw.gov.au

Children’s Services Employers must report to the Office of the Children’s Guardian any reportable allegations and convictions made against an employee and ensure they are investigated by the Approved Provider/owner of the Child Care Service with appropriate actions being taken when the investigation is complete. The Approved Provider/owner of the Child Care Service must notify the Office of the Children’s Guardian within 7 days of becoming aware of any reportable allegations or convictions made against an employee in children’s services.

Under Section 174AA of the National Law (NSW), educators and staff employed or engaged at a service must notify their approved provider if they receive a negative notice or a change to their accreditation or registration, including if their WWCC clearance has been refused or cancelled.

This notice must be provided in writing with 72 hours of the event occurring, or within 24 hours of becoming aware of the change.

Approved providers must notify the NSW Early Learning Commission within 24 hours of becoming aware of the change by emailing information@earlylearningcommission.nsw.gov.au.

Information requested by other organisations in relation to the safety, welfare and wellbeing of a child or young person will only be given upon a written request from another agency or organisation. This request can be emailed through to the centre and information in relation to that child can then be exchanged by the centre’s Director. General Manager and Approved Provider are to be informed of any written requests for information. Any information requested must relate to the safety, welfare or wellbeing of a child or young person. Information may be shared if it relates to:

• A child or young person’s history or circumstances; and/or

• A parent or other family member; and/or

• People having a significant or relevant relationship with a child or young person; and/or

• The other organisations’ dealings with the child or young person, including past support or service arrangements.

(Identify and Respond to children and young people at risk participant’s guide2010 p.27)

Allegations of abuse against staff, educators, volunteers, or students

The Approved Provider/Nominated Supervisor will

- Develop and maintain a system of appropriate record keeping for all allegations to ensure detailed documentation is made and stored as required.

- Take all allegations of abuse seriously and clarify what is being alleged with the person who is making the allegation.

- Assess whether or not a child or young person is 'at risk of significant harm' and, if so, make a report to the Child Protection Helpline.

- Complete an Incident/Injury/Trauma and Illness (serious/incident record) and notify the Regulatory Authority via the NQA ITS portal within 24 hours of being made aware of the allegation.

- Report the reportable allegation, a reportable conviction, or reportable conduct to the Office of the Children’s Guardian.

- Report allegations to the General Manager and Approved Provider.

- Report reportable allegations and reportable convictions to the Office of the Children’s Guardian within 7 days and conduct an investigation. A final entity report is to be submitted to the Office of the Children’s Guardian within 30 days.

- Consider whether or not the police need to be informed of the allegation and if so, make a report.

- Ensure confidentiality is maintained at all times and that systems are in place to deal with any breaches of confidentiality.

- Undertake a risk management approach following an allegation to ensure the protection and safety of children, educators, and visitors to the service. Based on this risk assessment, decisions will be made in order to manage the risks that have been identified.

- Develop an investigation plan of the matter. Obtain relevant information from a range of sources. This may include a statement from the person who made the allegation; statements from witnesses and a statement from the person against whom the allegation has been made and any other relevant documentation.

• If the allegation is being investigated by the Department of Communities and Justice or the Police, the service will be guided by their advice as to whether they should independently investigate the allegation.

• If the investigation is carried out by the service, the information that has been gathered will be assessed and a finding made as to whether the allegation is false, vexatious, misconceived, not reportable conduct, not sustained or sustained. The reasons for the finding will be clearly recorded to ensure that the decision-making has been transparent.

- The educator, volunteer or student will be advised of the outcome of the investigation in writing. Advice will be provided about the investigation finding and any follow up action that may be required. Advice will also be provided about any rights of appeal and the person will be advised that the Office of the Children’s Guardian has been notified.

- A final entity report will be submitted to the Office of the Children’s Guardian within 30 days with all supporting documentation gathered during the investigation.

- The Department of Communities and Justice will also be informed of the outcome of the investigation.

Informing the Educator, Volunteer/Student

The Approved Provider/Nominated Supervisor will

- Treat the staff member/educator/volunteer/student with fairness at all times and uphold their employee rights at all times.

- Depending on the nature of the allegation, arrange to inform the person immediately (though be guided by the advice of Department of Communities and Justice or the police).

- Arrange for the person against whom an allegation has been made, to have a support person attend the meeting. This support person must not participate in the discussions throughout the meeting.

- Make accurate documentation of all conversations, and ensure all records are kept confidentially.

- Offer counselling or support to the person subject to the allegation.

- Depending on the nature of the allegation made, the person subject to the allegation may be suspended pending further investigation.

- After all investigations are complete, provide the educator/carer/volunteer with verbal and written notification of the outcome of the investigation.

Rights of all parties

- The decision-making process throughout the investigation will be based on the safety and wellbeing of the child/ren and the educator/carers/carer's household members.

- Consideration will be taken in relation to actual or potential 'conflicts of interest' that may be held by the investigator.

- All reportable allegations will be notified to the Office of the Children’s Guardian. The person, against whom the allegation has been made, will be notified of this, and will also be notified of the investigation find and follow up action, including the notification to the Office of the Children’s Guardian.

- The person, against whom the allegation has been made, will be notified of any appeal mechanisms if they are not satisfied with the investigation process or the outcome of the investigation.

- The Approved Provider, Nominated Supervisor or other nominated person who conducts the investigation, will ensure that they act without bias, without delay and without conflict of interest; and

- All parties can complain to the Office of the Children’s Guardian if they are not satisfied with the conduct of the investigation.

Further information can be obtained from the Office of the Children’s Guardian websitehttps://ocg.nsw.gov.au

Exchanging information

Chapter 16A of the Children’s and Young Person’s (Care and Protection) Act 1998 enables children’s services to exchange information they reasonably believe may help other specified persons or entities to: ensure the safety, welfare or wellbeing of children; and help the persons or entities make decisions, conduct investigations, provide services or manage risks to a child.

Relevant information is allowed to be shared with persons and entities including other children’s services, NSW Police, state government departments or public authorities, schools, public health organisations, private health facilities, nurses, doctors, midwives, psychologists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists and bodies like family referral services. This aims to ensure children receive the help they may need.

Information sharing applies whether or not concerns of harm meet the mandatory reporting threshold of significant harm, and would only be declined if this may endanger a person’s life or physical safety, prejudice an investigation, not be in the public interest etc.

We do not need to have the consent of the people involved but should make sure that families and employees understand there is a possibility we will need to share confidential and private information about them in these circumstances. Where possible, it is best practice to obtain the consent of children and families before sharing information that relates to them. However, do not try to obtain consent if doing so could jeopardise safety and wellbeing of someone, put someone at the risk of harm, is otherwise impracticable or not in the best interests of a child.

We must only use the information we receive for the purpose for which it was given and we must always store confidential records in accordance with our policies and procedures.

Because this is such a sensitive and complex matter, in the event we need to share information, we should consult the NSW Department of Communities and Justice for further guidance (see their website for more information).

Confidentiality, record keeping, safeguards for reporters and support

Confidentiality

See also our Privacy and Confidentiality Policy and Record Keeping and Retention Policy for further guidance.

Any information our service gathers during - records, identities and reports – should be kept confidential and only be disclosed if required by law or when it is required to ensure the safety and well-being of a child (see information above about exchanging information). Staff must follow directions from Police and child protection authorities and ensure they comply with all relevant legislation, including the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

Staff should not promise absolute confidentiality to anyone involved in a disclosure or suspicion of harm, abuse or neglect (including children) as we may have disclose personal information in certain circumstances.

Record keeping

We are committed to keeping full and accurate records about any incidents, responses and decisions that relate to child safety and well-being, including sexual abuse. We all support individuals’ rights to access, amend and annotate their own records, except if in doing so they are breaking the law or breaching one of our other policies.

It is common for children to delay reporting or pursuing cases of abuse or harm. Therefore, all records that relate to child safety and well-being – e.g., suspicions, disclosures, allegations, convictions, reports, complaints, grievances, investigations, complaints handling, breaches, disciplinary actions, referrals, exchanges of information, risk assessments, policies and procedures - will be kept, maintained and stored for the best practice period of a minimum of 45 years (and longer if possible) and in line with our Record Keeping and Retention Policy.

Records that relate to child safety and well-being e.g. suspicions, disclosures, allegations, convictions, reports, complaints, grievances, investigations, complaints handling, breaches, disciplinary actions, referrals, exchanges, of information, risk assessments, policies and procedures will be kept in an indexed, logical and secure way.

Online records will be stored password protected file and physical records in a secure cabinet. Access will only be granted on a ‘need to know’ basis and in line with our other relevant policies.

Safeguards for reporters (see Protected Disclosures (Whistle blower) policy)
There are protections against retribution related to reportable allegations in the Children’s Guardian Act. Failure to make a report could be a reportable allegation of neglect against an employee and/or a criminal offence under the Crimes Act in addition to misconduct for not following service policies and procedures. Records kept by the Office of the Children’s Guardian in relation to reportable conduct notifications are not publicly accessible under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 and cannot be requested or subpoenaed for the majority of proceedings as evidence in a court or tribunal.

Under the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998, reports made in good faith to Child Protection do not breach professional etiquette or incur liability for defamation or constitute grounds for civil or criminal liability. There are also protections against detrimental actions for people making child protection reports.

Support after disclosure

Our service will help all parties affected by a disclosure of harm or abuse to access appropriate support and counselling services.

Information sharing, training and monitoring

Sharing information, training and checking compliance are key factors in ensuring our service has a child safe culture.

Educating children about protective behaviour

Our service promotes a culture of participation and inclusion, viewing all children as active participants and decision makers as they seek to include the interests, ideas, strengths, culture, abilities of each child (see also our Child Safe Policy). Educators regularly empower children to take part in discussions about their safety and decisions that affect them, and value their ideas, suggestions and feedback. Educators are attuned to babies’ and younger children’s non-verbal cues to plan curriculum and respond in ways that empowers them.

Educators will educate children about protective behaviour and include child protection issues in the curriculum. For example, they will intentionally teach children:

• About acceptable/unacceptable behaviour, and appropriate/inappropriate contact in a manner suitable to their age and level of understanding

• That they have a right to feel safe at all times

• To say ‘no‘ to anything that makes them feel unsafe

• The difference between ‘fun’ scared that is appropriate risk taking and dangerous scared that is not ok

• To use their own skills to feel safe

• To recognise signs that they do not feel safe and need to be alert and think clearly

• That there is no secret too awful, no story too terrible, that they can‘t share with someone they trust

• That educators are available for them if they have any concerns

• To tell educators of any suspicious activities or people

• To recognise and express their feelings verbally and non-verbally

• That they can choose to change the way they are feeling.

Educators believe that:

• Children are capable of the same range of emotions as adults

• Children’s emotions are real and need to be accepted by adults

• An adult’s response to a child during their early emotional development can be hugely positive or detrimental depending on the adult’s reaction

• Children are very in touch with their bodies’ reactions to their emotions

• Children who better understand their body’s response to an emotion are more able to foresee the outcome of a situation and avoid them or ask for help.

Sharing information with children, families and the community

Educators constantly build partnerships with families and community members, which provides many opportunities for discussion and feedback about safety practices. Staff encourage families to contribute to decisions about our practices and their child’s learning through a range of ways, including questionnaires, information nights, face to face conversations and an ‘Open Door’ policy. Families are informed of where they can access the centre policies and procedures and are invited to provide feedback at times of policy reviews.

Child safe information is written in plain language. Child safety is discussed in more detail with families and our child safe policies and procedures (including this one) and our Code of Conduct are included in our family enrolment/information packs.

Our response to child safety, including in cases of harm, suspected harm or complaints, is culturally sensitive. We engage with families and community members to improve our understanding of cultural practices and inform our responses.

We consider and protect children’s safety in the online environment in an age-appropriate way. Educators may discuss with children, for example, how there is no way to be sure who they are interacting with online. If needed, families are provided with relevant information about online risks to children to support their parenting and children’s wellbeing.

Staff, volunteers and family can access any of the risk assessments we conduct.

Staff and volunteer training

We include the Child Protection Policy (and all other associated policies and procedures) in staff, student and volunteer inductions and ensure all relevant staff receive practical training in relation to the requirements, including about how to identify and manage risks, their obligations as a mandatory reporter, the circumstances which would require them to make a report and how to submit a report. This will be reinforced through regular staff discussions and ongoing professional development.

Staff, volunteers and students who work directly with children regularly learn about child protection laws and their obligations under them, as well as our service’s practices. The nominated supervisor and staff who are in day-to-day charge are required by law to have successfully completed child protection training. The nominated supervisor or responsible person implements an ongoing support tailored to each staff member’s needs and goals, which are identified through regular performance reviews. The training is trauma-informed and includes:

• Information about Child Protection laws and each person’s legal obligations under them

• Information about staff/volunteer’s roles and responsibilities to protect children from harm

• Understanding the signs of child abuse and harm, including sexual abuse and grooming

• Knowing how to respond and support a child or person who is disclosing

• Internal reporting procedures and external reporting obligations

• Record keeping, confidentiality and privacy laws and procedures

• How to empower and include children in decisions about their own safety

• How to contribute to a culturally safe environment

• If needed, online risks to children, and families are provided with relevant information to support their parenting and children’s wellbeing

From February 27^th 2026 all educators must register for Mandatory Child Safety Training through the Gekko training platform. This training is mandatory and must be completed throughout the year by persons with management or control, nominated supervisors, persons in day-to-day charge, Family Day Care Educators, other staff, volunteers and students.

Monitoring compliance and managing breaches

The approved provider and nominated supervisor will monitor staff to ensure they are following our policies and procedures for child protection and safety. They will act quickly to fix any issues and will give staff any extra support or training they need to comply. Volunteers and students are also required to comply with all service policies and procedures and the Code of Conduct.

Staff, volunteers and students at our service have a duty of care and must support and protect children. Their duty of care is breached if a person:

• Does something that a reasonable person wouldn’t do in a particular situation

• Fails to do something that a reasonable person would do in the circumstances

• Acts or fails to act in a way that causes harm to someone owed a duty of care.

A breach of duty of care also includes any action or inaction by an employee, volunteer or student that fails to comply with this Child Protection Policy and Procedures.

Breaches should be reported to the approved provider or nominated supervisor, who will manage an investigation in a fair, unbiased and supportive manner in line with our Grievance Policy and Procedure (Report Breach Template attached). For example:

• Those involved in the breach will be able to provide their version of events

• Matters discussed in relation to the breach will be kept confidential

• An appropriate outcome will be decided

• Everyone affected will receive a clear written statement (letter, email or SMS) of the outcome

• Records will be kept about the details of the breach, including the versions of all parties and the outcome of the breach

Depending on the nature of the breach outcomes may include:

• Emphasising the relevant component of the Child Protection Policy, for example, the Code of Conduct

• Providing closer supervision

• Professional development and training

• Mediating between those involved in the incident (where appropriate)

• Disciplinary procedures if necessary

• Reviewing current policies and procedures and developing new policies and procedures if necessary

• Termination of employment

Roles and responsibilities

All staff, volunteers, students and families must understand our Child Protection Policy and Procedures and their role and responsibilities in keeping children safe and cared for.

Sources

Children’s Guardian Act 2019

Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012

Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998

Commission for Children and Young People Act 1998

Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010

The Australian Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse 2017

The National Model Code for Early Education and Care 2024

ChildStory Reporter website NSW Government (includes Mandatory Reporting Guide)

Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations

Office of the Children’s Guardian

Keeping Children and Young People Safe -: a shared community responsibility: ACT Community Services

National Quality Standard

QLD Blue Card Services: Child and Youth Risk Management Strategy Toolkit

Complaint Handling Guide: Upholding the rights of children and young people, Australian Government, National Office for Child Safety

Centre Support

National Child Safe Standards

NSW Early Learning Commission

South Australian Government’s Guide to problem sexual behaviour in children and young people

Indicators of harm, abuse and neglect

There are many indicators of harm, abuse and neglect of children, and harmful sexual behaviour in children. Behavioural or physical signs which assist in recognising harm to children are known as indicators. The following is a guide only. One indicator on its own may not imply abuse or neglect. However, a single indicator can be as important as the presence of several indicators. Each indicator needs to be considered in the context of other indicators and the child’s circumstances. A child's behaviour is likely to be affected if he/she is under stress. There can be many causes of stress and it is important to find out specifically what is causing the stress. Abuse and neglect can be single incidents or ongoing, and may be intentional or unintentional.

General indicators of harm, abuse and neglect

• Marked delay between injury and seeking medical assistance

• History of injury

• The child gives some indication that the injury did not occur as stated

• The child tells you someone has hurt him/her

• The child tells you about someone he/she knows who has been hurt

• Someone (relative, friend, acquaintance, sibling) tells you that the child may have been abused

Indicators of neglect

Neglect is the failure to provide the basic necessities of life. It is typically regarded as an act of omission or commission, and as such may or may not be intentional. Neglect is potentially serious and can have long-term developmental consequences for children. 

Indicators listed for children may also be evident in young people.

Indicators of physical abuse

Physical abuse is harm to a child or young person that is caused by non-accidental actions of a parent or other person responsible for their care. Physical abuse is often a particularly visible form of child maltreatment. Acts such as beating, shaking, biting, deliberate burning with an object, attempted strangulation and female genital mutilation are a range of examples of physical abuse or ill treatment. 

Indicators listed for children may also be evident in young people.

Indicators of sexual abuse

Sexual abuse is any sexual act or threat to a child or young person that causes them harm, or to be frightened or fearful. It covers non-contact forms of harm, such as flashing, having a child or young person pose or perform in a sexual manner, exposure to sexually explicit material or acts (including pornographic material) and a communication of graphic sexual matters (including by email and SMS). Contact forms of harm can include a range of contact behaviours including kissing, touching, or fondling the child or young person in a sexual manner, penetration of the vagina or anus either by digital, penile or any other object or coercing the child to perform any such action themselves or anyone else. 

Indicators listed for children may also be evident in young people.

Indicators of psychological harm

Psychological harm is serious harm caused by the psychologically abusive behaviour of a parent or other caregiver. Serious psychological harm can occur where the behaviour of their parent or caregiver damages the confidence and self-esteem of a child or young person, resulting in serious emotional deprivation or trauma. 

Serious psychological harm can lead to significant impairment of a child’s or young person’s social, emotional, cognitive, intellectual development and/or disturbance of a child’s or young person’s behaviour. 

Although it is possible for ‘one-off ’incidents to cause serious harm, in general it is the frequency, persistence and duration of the parental or carer behaviour that is instrumental in defining the consequences for the child. Additionally, individual child factors can mediate the impact of psychological harm – such as age, intelligence, resilience, and the nature of support the child receives from others. 

Indicators listed for children may also be evident in young people.

Indicators of domestic violence

Domestic violence is any abusive behaviour used by a person in a relationship to gain and maintain control over their intimate partner. It can include a broad range of abusive and intimidatory behaviour causing fear and physical and/or psychological harm. Domestic violence can be physical assault, sexual assault, or psychological abuse. It may also include behaviour such as restricting a partner’s or child’s social contact and financial deprivation. 

Indicators listed for children may also be evident in young people.

Indicators of Emotional Abuse

Emotional Abuse in children occurs when an adult harms a child’s development by repeatedly treating and speaking to a child in ways that damage the child’s ability to feel and express their feelings. 

Indicators listed for children may also be evident in young people.

Indicators of grooming in children

• Undue attention paid to a child by an adult- including gifts or special outings together

• Inappropriate touching such as tickling and back rubbing

• Inappropriate joke telling, sexual in nature

• Emotional or behavioural changes- including the abrupt onset of mood swings, secretive behaviour or

• Withdrawal

Indictors of grooming in older children and teens

• Perpetrator allows or encourages rule breaking such as smoking, drinking, staying out late

• Perpetrator identifies with the adolescent and appears to be someone who 'understands'

• Perpetrator communicates with adolescent outside normal role (i .e. coach or teacher).

• The effects of grooming can often be mistaken for normal 'teenage' behaviour such as aggressive or secretive behaviour, unexplained gifts or money, a marked change in behaviour and increased permissiveness

Disclosure of harm, abuse or neglect

A disclosure of harm, abuse or neglect occurs when someone, including a child, tells you about harm, abuse or neglect that has happened, is happening, or is likely to happen to a child. Disclosures of harm may start with:

• I think I saw…‖

• Somebody told me that…‖

• Just think you should know…‖

• I‘m not sure what I want you to do, but…‖

Child’s name ________________________________

Name of the person who made the disclosure______________________________

Are they related to the child? Yes No

If yes, what is the relationship? ________________________________________________________

What did the person disclose? Try to use the exact words they used. Use “I said” “they said” statements, include any questions you asked and comments you made

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

What date did the person make the disclosure? ________________ What time_______AM/PM

Where did the disclosure occur? _______________________________________________________

Was anyone else present during the disclosure? Yes No

If yes what is/are their name, role and employer?

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Have you followed the procedure in the Child Protection Policy and Procedure for making a report? Yes No

Describe the actions you have taken following the disclosure

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________ __________________________________

Name of person completing form Signature of person completing form

Date ____________ Time ________ AM/PM

Suspicion of harm, abuse or neglect

Staff, volunteers and students may suspect harm, abuse or neglect if:

• a child says they have been harmed, abused or neglected

• someone else, for example another child, a parent, or an employee, says harm, abuse or neglect has occurred or is likely to occur

• a child says they know someone who has been harmed, abused or neglected (it is possible that they may be referring to themselves)

• they are concerned at significant changes in the behaviour of a child, or the presence of new unexplained and suspicious injuries

• they see the harm, abuse or neglect happening.

Child’s name __________________________________________________________________

Why do you suspect harm, abuse or neglect? Try to use the exact words a child or someone else uses if relevant. Provide as much detail as possible

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

If relevant, what date did the person say something? _______________What time______AM/PM

Have you followed the procedure in the Child Protection Policy and Procedure for making a report? Yes No

Describe the actions you have taken because of your suspicion

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________. _______________________________

Name of person completing form Signature of person completing form

Date ______________________________ Time _______________________ AM/PM

Reporting Suspicion of Harm, Abuse or Neglect

Name of child or young person: ________________________________________________________

Age:_______________________ Date of Birth:___________________________________

Is the child Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander: No Yes, Aboriginal

Yes, Torres Strait Islander Yes, Both

Child’s cultural background: ___________________________________________________________

Language(s) spoken: _________________________________________________________________

Religion: _________________ Other cultural factors: ____________________________

Name and Age of other household children or young people: ________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Address of child and family: ___________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Child Care Centre details: _____________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Does this child have a disability: Yes No (If yes please describe) _____________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Is the child or young person subject of an Apprehended Violence Order?: Yes No

(If yes please describe)

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Is the child or young person under the care of the Minister or residing in out-of-home care? Yes No (If Yes please provide details)

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Family Information

Name of parents/carer and household adults: ____________________________________________

Age of parents/carer and household adults: ______________________________________________

Home Phone Number: ______________ Mobile Numbers:__________________________________

Parent’s cultural background: _________________________________________________________

Language(s) spoken: _________________________________________________________________

Religion: _________________ Other cultural factors: ______________________________________

Information about parental risk factors and how they link to child’s risk of harm: ________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please indicate if any of the following are involved in relation to the Family:

Domestic Violence: Yes No

Alcohol or other drug misuse: Yes No

Unmanaged Mental Illness: Yes No

Intellectual or other disability: Yes No

Protective factors and family strengths: _________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Non-offending carers’ capacity to protect child: ___________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Any previous suspicious death of a child or young person in the household?: ___________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Is the parent/carer pregnant?: _________________________________________________________

Description of family structure (e.g. biological parents, single parent, blended family): ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Name, age, and gender of siblings: _____________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Do siblings live with the child or young person?: Yes No

Reporter Details:

Name: ____________________________________________________________________________

Centre Name: ______________________________________________________________________

Centre Address: ____________________________________________________________________

Contact Phone Number: _____________________________________________________________
Centre Email address: _______________________________________________________________

Position within centre: _______________________________________________________________

Reason for reporting today: ___________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Nature of contact with child or family: __________________________________________________

Nature of ongoing role with child or family (include frequency, duration, and type): ______________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If report is being made by someone else in the centre, include name of centre worker who sourced the report: _________________________________________________________________________

Other Information:

Services involved with child/family if known: _____________________________________________

Principal language of family: __________________________________________________________

Is an Interpreter required: Yes No

Does the parent know of this report: Yes No (If yes include details of their response): __________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Does the child or young person know of this report: Yes No (If yes include details of their views): __________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are there any issues related to worker safety: Yes No (if yes include details): __________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Outcome of Mandatory Reporter Guide (MRG): ___________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Once a report has been made to the Child Protection Helpline no further report needs to be made unless new information comes to hand. Please attach copy of decision report from the online Mandatory Reporter Guide to this information and keep on file for future reference.

Date breach occurred ______________________ Time breach occurred __________________

Location of breach __________________________________________________________________

Name of person(s) involved in the breach

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Description of the breach

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Immediate action taken

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If no action taken – reason

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

___________________________ ______________________________

Name of person completing form Signature of person completing form

Date _____________________ Time __________ AM/PM

____________________________________. _____________________________

Authority breach reported to (if relevant) Name of person reported to

Register of child protection concerns: Click to type service name

SE number: Click to type SE number

Provider name: Click to type provider name

PR number: Click to type provider number

This register supports consistent documentation, monitoring and appropriate follow-up of matters relating to the safety and wellbeing of children, while they are attending early education and care services.

How to use this register

Compliance requirements (Regulation 168(2)(h)(iii))
At a minimum, this register must record all child safety and child protection reports made to:

• NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian (OCG)

• NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ)

• NSW Early Learning Commission

• NSW Police

This includes all suspicions, allegations or disclosures of child abuse, neglect or harm that are reported in accordance with the NSW Early Learning Commission’s reporting guide and relevant legislation. It also includes notifications made in relation to serious incidents (Section 174), inappropriate conduct (Section 166A) and negative notices (Section 174AB).

Remember when making your reports to the various agencies to ensure you receive a reference number.

Best-practice use of this register

To strengthen child safety and child protection practices, support timely responses and enable effective pattern-spotting or trend monitoring, services are encouraged to also record any concerns about a child that may not meet the threshold for mandatory reporting but are relevant to ongoing risk assessment (e.g., changes in behaviour, unexplained injuries, concerning observations).

Ongoing review and follow-up

• Review the register regularly to monitor for patterns, repeated concerns or emerging risks.

• Ensure appropriate follow-up, support, escalation or reporting occurs as required.

• Maintain the register in line with the service’s policies and procedures to ensure confidentiality, accountability and compliance with protected disclosure provisions.

The service’s child safe environments policy and procedures should clearly outline responsibilities for maintaining, storing and reviewing the register to ensure confidentiality and accountability (and considering protected disclosure provisions) and that any trends or patterns of behaviour evident in the register are identify and addressed.