Putting children first
FDCQ supports national child-safety reforms, ready to work with the sector on sustainable implementation.
Family Day Care Queensland (FDCQ) welcomes the national child-safety decisions announced by the Hon. Jason Clare MP following the meeting of education ministers on Friday, 23 August. Our focus now is clear: work together to implement the changes in a way that keeps children safe, supports educators, and gives families confidence in home-based early education and care.
As the peak body for Family Day Care in Queensland, we will collaborate with other peak bodies and the government to translate the reforms into practical steps for services and educators. "We particularly welcome measures that improve visibility and capability across the system", says FDCQ's Board Chair, Dr. Fiona Margetts, acknowledging the organisation's support for a National Educator Register, mandatory child-safety training for all roles (including administration and management), and clearer information to help families make informed choices.
“Safety, wellbeing and thriving children are our priority. We welcome the national focus on prevention, training and accountability," says Stella Conway, CEO of FDCQ. Service providers, educators and families can be assured that FDCQ will work constructively with governments and sector partners so Family Day Care services can implement the changes sustainably. Our goal is simple: the best outcomes for children and families, delivered by a strong, well-supported home-based workforce.
How FDCQ will help
Across the coming weeks and months, FDCQ will be working hard to support services in making the necessary adjustments to meet the regulatory requirements, including:
- Plain-English guidance: checklists, policy templates and educator FAQs to support implementation.
- Collaboration: work with other peak bodies and regulators to align advice and avoid duplication.
- Family information: easy-to-read updates so parents understand what is changing and why.
- Sustainable practice: promote approaches that support quality home-based education care that is safe, promotes children’s development and assures sector viability.
Working together
FDCQ will continue partnering with government and fellow peak bodies to deliver consistent, practical support. If you’re a service or educator seeking guidance, please contact us or subscribe* to receive updates and tools as they are released.
*Subscribe to our PLACE platform for free, or enjoy the full benefits from as low as $9 a month: https://www.place.org.au
