Families with young children were left yet again reeling after a Four Corners investigation into abuse in the early childhood sector, reports Danielle Arlanda Harris The program identified almost 150 childcare workers who had been convicted, charged, or accused of sexual abuse and inappropriate conduct. System-wide changes...
So, what is it? asks Gemma McKibbin, and how should we respond appropriately Allegations of sexual abuse by early childhood educators have rocked Australia in recent months. Now, the ABC’s investigation into the childcare sector has revealed hundreds more cases – this time committed by children against...
Supervision gaps can lead to child abuse – what can be done? writes Marg Rogers Suwatchai Pluemruetai/Shutterstock The horrific allegations of child abuse by an early childhood educator in Victoria came to light at a time when the early learning sector was already under fire for previous...
How should we talk to our kids about abuse and body safety? writes Elizabeth Westrupp. Here’s what parents and carers can do right now. Hearing about child abuse in trusted places such as childcare centres is every parent’s worst nightmare. So, how can we talk to our...
The regulation of the working with children check system is poor, writes Rosemary Sheehan. What are working with children checks? Disturbing allegations have emerged about a Melbourne childcare worker, who has been charged with more than 70 offences, including sexual assault and producing child abuse material. Health...
We don’t really know. Even though the national childcare quality authority reports on the number of “serious incidents” in childcare services, reports Erin Harper. This week, a Melbourne childcare worker was charged over the alleged sexual abuse of young children in his care. Families are...
Relationship expert Kristina Scharp describes the problem and outlines the research agenda. Holidays are often a time of strengthening family bonds and relationships. But for those who have difficult relationships with siblings, parents and extended family, it can be a stressful and upsetting time. We asked Kristina Scharp...
What is eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR)? researchers Peta Stapleton and Cher McGillivray look at the current theories. Childhood traumatic experiences are common. Almost one in three (32%) Australians reported being physically abused as a child, 31% experienced emotional abuse, 28.5% were victims of sexual...
Daryl Higgins writes: The following story deals with reports of childhood maltreatment, including neglect and physical and sexual abuse. In April 2023, we released results from the Australian Child Maltreatment Study. It is the first national survey of the population aged 16 years and older about their...
In Australia, the corporal punishment of children is legal, writes Sophie Havighurst. Parents can still wash their child's mouth out with soap. In all states and territories, parents or carers are permitted to punish children using physical force with the intent to cause some degree of...
