CCTV in Childcare Centres: What NSW’s New Trial Means & How to Prepare

Child safety is always the top priority in early learning. In response to community concern and recommendations from the Wheeler Review into child safety, the NSW Government has announced a CCTV trial across up to 300 childcare centres, starting in late 2025.

This initiative is part of broader reforms, including a national register of educators, mandatory child safety training, and tighter regulations. The aim is simple: increase transparency, oversight, and trust in childcare environments.

But what does this mean for childcare providers, and how can centres prepare to implement CCTV responsibly?

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Why CCTV is Being Introduced in Childcare

The idea of installing CCTV in childcare is not new, but the NSW Government’s trial reflects growing demand for stronger child protection measures.

• Improving child safety: CCTV provides a tool for reviewing incidents, ensuring accountability, and creating safer environments for children.
• Supporting regulatory oversight: According to ABC News, the trial will explore how footage is stored, who can access it, and how systems can be safeguarded from misuse or hacking.
• Strengthening community trust: Parents expect visible steps that demonstrate a centre’s commitment to child safety. CCTV can provide reassurance that risks are being managed proactively.

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Key Considerations When Implementing CCTV in Childcare

Installing CCTV isn’t simply about mounting cameras. Done poorly, it can create privacy risks, staff anxiety, and compliance issues. Done well, it becomes a tool that enhances safety without being intrusive.

1. Protecting Privacy

Children and staff have the right to privacy and dignity. This means centres need to:

• Avoid sensitive areas: Cameras should never be placed in bathrooms, nappy-changing stations, or nap rooms where privacy is expected.
• Be transparent: Parents and staff should know what areas are covered, what is recorded, and why. This builds trust and reduces misunderstandings.
• Obtain consent: Written consent and clear signage help demonstrate compliance and ensure that families and staff are fully informed. Aussie Childcare Network provides useful examples of policies that centres can adapt.

2. Securing the Data

CCTV footage is sensitive information, and poor security can lead to breaches.

• Encrypted storage: Whether footage is stored locally on an NVR or in the cloud, it should be encrypted both in transit and at rest.
• Controlled access: Only authorised staff (for example, directors or compliance officers) should have access. Audit logs can help track usage.
• Retention limits: Define how long footage will be kept—typically 14–30 days unless needed for investigation—then automatically delete it to reduce risks. This is critical for compliance.

3. Placing Cameras Wisely

Where cameras are installed has a big impact on both effectiveness and comfort.

• Focus on shared spaces: Entrances, reception areas, playgrounds, and hallways are high-value locations.
• Visible but discreet: Cameras should deter unsafe behaviour without making children feel “watched” all the time.
• Use smart features: Some systems allow “privacy masking” to block certain parts of the camera’s view, helping centres balance safety and privacy.

4. Developing Policies & Training

Technology is only part of the solution—policies and training ensure consistency.

• Write a clear CCTV policy: Document why cameras are in place, who can view footage, how long it’s stored, and how parents can request access.
• Train staff: Educators should know how the system works, what it can and cannot be used for, and how it supports (rather than replaces) their professional judgment.
• Promote consistency: A well-communicated policy builds confidence among families and staff alike.

5. Staying Compliant

Laws and regulations set important boundaries for CCTV use.

• Understand the legal framework: CCTV use in childcare must comply with the Surveillance Devices Act 2007 (NSW) and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).
• Prepare for inspections: Regulators may request access to policies or footage. Having these in order shows professionalism.
• Plan ahead: The current trial may lead to broader requirements. Implementing a compliant, scalable system now will save headaches later.

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Preparing for the NSW CCTV Trial

While only some centres will be part of the initial trial, the direction is clear: CCTV is becoming part of the childcare safety landscape. To get ready, centres should:

1. Audit existing security measures — understand what’s in place now and where risks exist.
2. Review privacy and consent processes — ensure these are transparent and legally sound.
3. Engage staff and families early — communication reduces anxiety and builds shared trust.
4. Explore secure, scalable systems — choose solutions that can adapt as regulations evolve.

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Moving Forward

CCTV is not a cure-all, but it is becoming a central part of child safety in NSW childcare centres. When planned carefully, it can strengthen protection for children, build confidence among parents, and support staff in their important work.

As a local technology partner, AST Technologies works with organisations across the Illawarra, Southern Highlands and South Coast NSW to design secure, compliant and unobtrusive CCTV systems. We are licensed cablers and proud recipients of a NECA NSW Excellence Award for our work in communications solutions.

If you’d like to better understand how CCTV could be introduced in your childcare centre, we offer a free onsite CCTV audit & review. Learn more here: AST CCTV Security Cameras.