NSW To Launch Childcare Reforms With Independent Regulator

The NSW Government has announced nation-leading reforms for an independent early childcare regulator, in response to ongoing concerns over safety in the sector.

Driven by the Minns Labor Government, the reforms aim to prioritise child safety and restore public trust in early childhood and care services.

Key changes include the creation of an independent regulatory body separate from the Department of Education, stronger enforcement powers, mandatory notification to families following serious breaches, and higher penalties for non-compliant providers.

A CCTV trial will also be introduced in centres under investigation, with footage monitored by the new regulator to assist with inquiries.

The reforms were prompted by an independent review commissioned by the Government earlier this year and led by former NSW Deputy Ombudsman Chris Wheeler.

The Wheeler Report found serious gaps in transparency, enforcement, and regulatory action, noting that NSW was falling behind Queensland and Victoria.

“Parents deserve to know that when they leave their children at an early learning centre or preschool, their child will be cared for, respected and nurtured,” said Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos.

“These reforms will ensure the regulator is independent, empowered and focused solely on protecting children—not hampered in their fight against dodgy operators.”

The reform package also includes a new ministerial directive requiring the regulator to publish service quality and safety performance data, where allowed under national law.

The NSW Government will work with the Commonwealth and other states to progress amendments to the national legislation.

The initiative will roll out alongside NSW’s expansion of public early learning. The Minns Government has committed to building 100 new public preschools by 2027, doubling access to free early education across the state.

Effectiveness to be seen

The announcement comes amid ongoing public concern about child safety in care. In May, City Hub reported on multiple abuse allegations in childcare centres and called for a sector-wide clean-up.

“This sector has not worked for families for many years. We cannot wait any longer,” Houssos said.

“We must ensure that every child is safe, respected, and supported in early learning settings.”

The Government confirmed this is the first phase of its response to the Wheeler Review, with Mr Wheeler to stay on as an advisor throughout the reform process.

Whether these reforms will deliver lasting improvements in oversight and rebuild parent confidence remains to be seen, but the Minns Government’s announcement marks a significant step forward in child safety regulation in NSW.