This content has been developed to support staff employed in early childhood services in Victoria to take action if they suspect, or are witness to any form of child abuse.
This includes all staff within any service providing education and care to children under the age of 13 years including in Outside School Hours Care (OSHC), as well as those working in children's services providing occasional care and limited hours care. It also includes Maternal Child Health Services, Early Childhood Intervention Services and Supported Playgroups. There is separate guidance for school staff within Victorian Schools.
As a staff member within an early childhood service, you play a vital role in protecting children from abuse by responding to and reporting any incidents, disclosures or suspicions. You are often best placed to identify signs and behaviours that may indicate that a child has been subject to abuse, or that a community member, staff member, contractor or volunteer may be a perpetrator of abuse.
This resource uses the term child to refer to any person under the age of 18.
This resource has been designed to support you in this role and it includes specific advice on:
To download a copy of the full guide and factsheets, see:
Relevant authorities
Both DFFH and Victoria Police have statutory responsibilities under the Children Youth and Families Act 2005 and Crimes Act 1958 requiring people to report suspected child abuse where they have formed a 'reasonable belief' or 'a belief on reasonable grounds' in relation to the protection of children.
24-hour services
Counselling and support organisations