Following reports of child sexual abuse in a Melbourne childcare centre, the installation of CCTV cameras has emerged as an immediate response. Major providers like G8 and Affinity plan to expedite CCTV installations. Goodstart, the largest not-for-profit provider, has been installing cameras since 2022. State governments are considering mandating CCTV in childcare centres facing serious issues. Experts warn that relying on cameras may impede necessary structural reforms in early childhood education and poses risks in environments for young children. Funding support may be required due to high installation costs.
The installation of CCTV cameras in childcare centres has been proposed as a response to reports of child sexual abuse, amid calls from politicians and providers for immediate action. G8 and Affinity, two of the largest for-profit providers, announced plans to implement or fast track CCTV installations in their centres, where a worker faces over 70 allegations of abuse. Goodstart, the largest not-for-profit provider, has already been equipping new centres with cameras since 2022.
While CCTV cameras may be seen as a quick fix for child safety in centres, early childhood experts have expressed concerns that focusing on surveillance could overshadow the more difficult structural improvements needed in the sector. The presence of cameras raises significant child safety risks in environments where over 1 million young children play and rest. Effective monitoring must also consider the financial implications for childcare operators.
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