The National Catholic Education Commission says the Albanese Government’s announcement of $37 million in funding for a National Continuous Checking Capability system is a major step towards a consistent, national approach to safeguarding children.
The NCCC will introduce continuous, near real-time monitoring of criminal history information for Working with Children Check holders in every state and territory, with a rollout beginning at the end of 2025.
The reforms also include national mutual recognition of negative WWCC decisions and a unified risk framework across jurisdictions, measures Catholic education has championed to close safeguarding gaps.
Earlier this year, the NCEC called for a national approach to child safety checks and information sharing, highlighting the importance of a coordinated, consistent system across all states and territories.
After more than 10 years calling for a nationally consistent approach, NCEC executive director Jacinta Collins said, “This is a landmark reform in child safety policy.”
“Catholic schools place the safety and wellbeing of children at the centre of everything we do. [Friday’s] announcement and investment is a step closer to ensuring safeguarding of children is a national priority which is not impeded by jurisdictional variation,” Ms Collins said.
“We are particularly pleased to see mutual recognition of WWCC decisions across jurisdictions. For too long, inconsistencies between states and territories have left children vulnerable. This reform sets a new national benchmark of safety and protection.”
The NCEC said it looks forward to working with governments, school communities, families and other providers to embed these reforms across its sector.
“As organisations centred on interactions with children and young people, it is essential that we have access to mechanisms and systems which ensure our staff, volunteers and providers are committed to child safety,” Ms Collins said.
FULL STORY
Catholic education welcomes $37 million national reform to strengthen child safety (NCEC)
