November 30th, 2025
Latest News
As you would no doubt be well aware, the recent police charges and investigations into charges of sexual abuse by a male educator have sparked debate about the ongoing role of men in childcare settings.
Whilst it’s understandable that we should be reviewing our practices and policy settings to ensure safety and prevent future incidents, it is equally important that these reviews are conducted thoughtfully, without unfairly stigmatising or excluding anyone from the sector.
The Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA) holds the view that now, more than ever, the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sector must stand behind all educators and teachers.
As employers, we must make decisions that value the contribution of all of our staff and uphold their right to work in an environment that is free from bias.
As employers, we have a legal and moral responsibility to act without discrimination, while also safeguarding the wellbeing of our staff and the children in our care.
Right now, we need to be acutely aware of the unique pressures facing male educators, and remain attentive to how these pressures may be affecting them.
Of equal importance, the families attending our services are entitled to transparency. We need to communicate openly and clearly about the robust child safety measures we have in place, helping to reassure our families and foster their trust.
As you would be aware, the ACA values and relies on the professional advice of our industrial relations legal advisors - the Australian Business Lawyers and Advisors (ABLA).
The team at ABLA have produced an article titled "Banning men from work? Risky business", which sets out five reasons why employers operating in the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sector should not implement sex-based restrictions in response to the recent safety debate in the sector.
We strongly encourage you to read the full article, to ensure you have a firm understanding of the legal, ethical, and practical implications of imposing sex-based restrictions, and that your service promotes best practices that support a safe, inclusive and fair workplace for all.
We rightly promote inclusion for all children and families. That same standard must apply to our educators too.
SOURCE: ACA NATIONAL COMMITTEE
PUBLISHED: 24 July 2025
