The latest report by the National Childcare Accreditation Council (NCAC) has found a large number of child care centres are "failing to meet basic standards of hygiene, safety and education".

 

The report finds that:

  • 25 per cent failed to ensure that potentially dangerous products, plants and objects are inaccessible to children
  • 29 per cent failed to implement effective and current food, safety and hygiene practices
  • 28 per cent failed to ensure toileting and nappy changing procedures were positive experiences; and
  • 22 per cent failed to document children’s learning and use a planning program
  • 20 per cent did not act to control the spread of infectious diseases and maintain records of immunisations.

 

The Australian Federal government, in collaboration  with State and Territory governments, is aiming to introduce a " National Quality Framework" for childcare which will aim to improve the quality and life standards of childcare nationwide.

 

The reforms will aim to boost staff-to-child ratios, ensuring that each child will receive more time, and ultimately, a better quality of care.

 

For more information about the National Quality Framework visit www.mychild.gov.au