Lax rules and rise in for-profit childcare allow predators to abuse children, NSW inquiry finds
A recent inquiry in New South Wales has revealed significant issues within the Early Childhood Education and Care sector, highlighting systemic weaknesses that have allowed predators to operate. The report criticizes the rise of for-profit childcare services and lax regulatory oversight, stating that these factors have contributed to a crisis affecting children and families. Recommendations include reducing the presence of for-profit providers and enhancing safety measures in childcare facilities.
- ▪The inquiry found that lax rules and the proliferation of for-profit childcare services have allowed predators to abuse children.
- ▪Chair Abigail Boyd stated that the sector is 'in crisis' and failing too many children, families, and educators.
- ▪The report recommends reducing the number of large for-profit providers in favor of not-for-profit and community-run services.
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Abigail Boyd, who chaired the inquiry into the Early Childhood Education and Care sector, said the industry was ‘in crisis’. Photograph: Carly Earl/The GuardianView image in fullscreenAbigail Boyd, who chaired the inquiry into the Early Childhood Education and Care sector, said the industry was ‘in crisis’. Photograph: Carly Earl/The GuardianAustralia newsLax rules and rise in for-profit childcare allow predators to abuse children, NSW inquiry finds Greens MLC Abigail Boyd – who chaired inquiry – says system ‘failing too many children, families and educators’Penry BuckleyWed 20 May 2026 03.27 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleSystemic weaknesses in New South Wales’ childcare sector have allowed predators to work in the industry and abuse children, a scathing inquiry has found.In its…
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