Both child safety training and child protection training are mandated for specific roles under the National Law and National Regulations.
The free training assists staff to understand the child safety framework and requirements for keeping children safe.
Approved providers must ensure Foundations of Child Safety training is completed before the deadline.
Foundations of Child Safety training consists of the modules:
- understanding child safety
- understanding and identifying child abuse and neglect.
The deadline for completing the 2 Foundations of Child Safety modules is 27 August 2026 for all existing workers appointed before 14 August 2026.
Workers appointed after 14 August 2026 must complete the training:
- within 14 days of the person being employed, engaged or appointed at the service, or
- before working directly with children (whichever is earlier).
Individuals can download a completion certificate from Geccko after completing both Foundations of Child Safety modules. Read instructions on using Geccko, including how to download the certificate.
Information about Advanced Child Safety training is available on the Department of Education website.
Victorian child protection training
Specified staff, students and volunteers in NQF services must also complete the online child protection training module (EC PROTECT). Confirm who needs to complete the training at: Child protection and child safety in early childhood.
People appointed before 14 August 2026 have until 27 August 2026 to complete the training . Those appointed after that date must complete the training before working with children, or within 14 days of being employed at the service, whichever is earlier.
Access the online module at: Protecting Children – Mandatory Reporting and other Obligations for Early Childhood (EC PROTECT).
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