The Australian Government has introduced free mandatory child safety training for everyone working or volunteering in early childhood education and care (ECEC) services.

Regulated under the National Quality Framework (NQF), this reform represents a significant national step in strengthening safeguarding practices and ensuring the wellbeing of all children in ECEC. 

What the training involves

The national training package includes two components:

• Foundation Training – available now (estimated to take approximately 2 hours to complete)
  • Module 1: Understanding child safety
  • Module 2: Understanding and identifying child abuse and neglect
• Advanced Training – launching in July 2026

Who must complete the training

The new requirement applies to all individuals working or volunteering in an ECEC service regulated under the NQF, including:

• Approved providers
• Service managers
• Nominated service supervisors
• Individuals in day-to-day charge
• Family Day Care educators
• All staff members
• All volunteers
• All students

Deadlines

All existing ECEC staff must complete the foundation training by 27 August 2026. 

Incoming staff from 14 August 2026 must complete the foundation training within 14 days of their employment.

Accessing the training

The training has been developed by the Australian Centre for Child Protection (ACCP) in partnership with the Queensland Government, on behalf of all Australian jurisdictions. It is delivered online for free through Geccko, the dedicated learning platform for the early childhood sector. A range of supports are available to help providers facilitate staff participation. 

Strengthening child safety across the sector

This initiative forms part of the wider National Child Safety Reform program aimed at improving quality, strengthening regulatory practices, and ensuring that every child in early learning settings is protected from harm.