In recent days, there has been considerable discussion and confusion surrounding new guidelines regarding the taking of photos in early childhood education and care settings. This confusion primarily stems from discrepancies between official press releases and simplified social media posts by government officials, notably the recent statements made by Minister Jason Clare.
The National Model Code for Taking Images or Videos of Children in Early Childhood Education and Care, recently released by ACECQA, marks a significant step towards enhancing child safety in educational environments. These guidelines are designed to standardise practices across the sector, ensuring that the wellbeing and privacy of children are prioritised.
However, despite the importance of these guidelines, it’s crucial to clarify that they are recommendations for best practices rather than legislative mandates. The detailed provisions outlined in the official press release differ significantly from the simplified and potentially misleading statements shared on social media platforms.
Accurate communication is paramount, especially when it concerns child safety. The development of The National Principles for Child Safe Organisations, led by Megan Mitchell during her tenure as National Children’s Commissioner as part of the Child Safe Organisations project, emphasises the need for organisations to foster safe environments where children’s rights and wellbeing are upheld. These principles emphasise transparency, accountability, and the responsible handling of sensitive information.
“We encourage all stakeholders, from educators to parents and policymakers, to seek information from credible sources such as official press releases or authoritative bodies like ACECQA“
We encourage all stakeholders, from educators to parents and policymakers, to seek information from credible sources such as official press releases or authoritative bodies like ACECQA. By staying informed and fostering a nuanced understanding of child safety measures (where they came from, why we have them), we can collectively ensure that our children and young people are protected in early education and care settings.
For more detailed insights into child safety measures and the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations, explore the following links:
Australian Human Rights Commission – Child Safety https://childsafe.humanrights.gov.au/
National Principles for Child Safe Organisations https://childsafe.humanrights.gov.au/national-principles/about-national-principles
Joint Media Release Personal phones restricted in early childhood education and care services https://ministers.education.gov.au/clare/personal-phones-restricted-early-childhood-education-and-care-services
ACECQA National Model Code Communications Toolkit https://www.acecqa.gov.au/national-model-code-communications-toolkit
Minister for Education at Parliament of Australia, The Hon Jason Clare MP social post https://www.facebook.com/JasonClareMP/ and
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7213818428720074752/
