The Select Committee conducting an inquiry into the recent child safety failures in the early childhood education and care sector in Victoria is calling for public submissions.
The Inquiry was successfully established by The Nationals and Liberals after allegations of child safety and abuse in the sector were revealed, distressing families.
The Nationals’ Melina Bath who is serving on the Committee is encouraging parents, carers, educators and training organisations to have their say and make a submission to the wide ranging Inquiry.
Ms Bath said parents and families were devastated and disturbed by the failures in Victoria’s child safety regulations and subsequent compliance failures.
“The Committee will investigate exactly what went wrong and by whom; and make recommendations for reform to better protect our youngest citizens and minimise the possibility of future repeats.”
The Inquiry is examining the effectiveness of Working with Children Checks, as well as current quality and safety standards, and the training, qualifications, and professional development of educators in Victoria’s childcare sector.
It will also examine workforce conditions, staff-to-child ratio regulations, and whether there is sufficient oversight by the Department of Education.
Ms Bath said families had reported that they had lost faith in the childcare and early education sector and the Inquiry is needed to restore confidence in the sector.
“Families deserve certainty when they drop their young children off, that they are kept safe from harm and receive quality care and education.
“People’s views and experiences will help shape recommendations for meaningful improvements to the system and help our young children receive the care and protection they deserve.”
A full copy of the Inquiry’s Terms of Reference and the submissions portal can be found online at https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/inquiries/earlyeducation/submissions
The Select Committee will table an interim report in early 2026, with a final report due to Parliament by 31 July 2026.
Submissions close on 30 November 2025.
