A nationally coordinated child safety initiative supporting more than 400,000 learners across Australia’s early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector has been named a finalist in the Collaboration category of the 2026 IPAA ACT Spirit of Service Awards.
The National Child Safety Training initiative has been recognised for bringing together governments, child protection experts and sector partners to strengthen child safety capability across the ECEC sector. The awards celebrate excellence and innovation across the public sector.
Developed through a partnership between the Australian Government Department of Education, the Queensland Department of Education and the Australian Centre for Child Protection at the University of Adelaide, the initiative was delivered on behalf of all Australian governments.
Established in response to recommendations for a more consistent national approach to child safety training, the initiative brought together expertise in policy, digital learning and child protection to deliver a nationally coordinated, evidence-informed training solution for the ECEC workforce.
Extensive consultation helped ensure the training reflects the diverse needs of the ECEC workforce and supports practical, accessible learning.
Since launching in February 2026, the training has seen strong uptake across the sector. Hosted on the department's Geccko learning platform, the initiative has supported a national learner community of more than 400,000 people and helped strengthen workforce capability in child safety practices.
Feedback collected by the Australian Centre for Child Protection highlights the practical impact of the training, with learners reporting increased confidence, stronger advocacy skills and a greater understanding of their role in keeping children safe.
"I have learned something, it made me think and I feel confident that I will change some things and have tools to improve my service so children feel more safe, more heard and more respected." – Early childhood educator, Tasmania
"This course empowered me to advocate for the children... I liked that the content was pointing out how we are all responsible to protect the children in a way I have not seen in other courses." – Early childhood educator with more than 20 years' experience, New South Wales
This nomination recognises what can be achieved when governments, experts and the ECEC sector work together towards a shared goal: helping create safer environments for children across Australia.
People's Choice voting is open until 30 September. View the 2026 Spirit of Service Awards finalists and cast your vote