Children should be safe wherever they learn, play and grow. However, there are significant gaps that exist across the sector. We believe the current system does not always provide the level of supervision required to guarantee safety. Critically, we hold grave concerns about the potential implications of one educator being alone with large groups of children.
We have worked in children’s services for decades, with involvement in OSHC since the 1960s. As one of the state’s largest not-for-profit providers of OSHC, the Y NSW always puts children before profits.
Our experience tells us that consistent adult presence and visibility are critical safeguards. Across the OSHC sector, existing regulations allow a single educator to be solely responsible for the education and care of up to fifteen children. This creates an environment where risks can go unnoticed and accountability is reduced.
High safety standards have long been part of our everyday practice at the Y NSW. This includes mandatory safeguarding training, comprehensive risk management processes, and clear operational systems that support effective reporting, monitoring and escalation.
Based on evidence and sector experience, we believe there should always be at least two educators present when children are in care. This approach strengthens visibility, ensures shared accountability, and reduces the likelihood of harm.
We are calling on the NSW Government to urgently strengthen the regulatory framework for OSHC by making the two educator model standard practice across all services. This reform would close known safety gaps and increase confidence for families, educators and communities.
This is a moment for critical reform, led by evidence and centred on children’s rights and safety. Back to news
