Last mentioned: Mar 12, 2026
Regulatory Review
ACECQA to deliver formal assessment of the proposal's impact on safety standards.
Consultation Period
Deadline for public and stakeholder submissions on the new safety standards.
Consultation Phase
Public hearings scheduled with child safety advocates and industry bodies.
Proposal Unveiled
Government releases draft plan to include in-home care in subsidy frameworks.
Public Backlash
Regional news outlets report widespread safety concerns from industry bodies.
Draft Proposal
Initial framework for integrating au pairs into the CCS system is drafted.
Workforce Report
Australian government identifies 15% shortfall in regional childcare placements.
A new Australian government proposal to expand the role of au pairs and nannies within the formal childcare system has triggered significant safety concerns. Critics warn that relaxing oversight to address workforce shortages could compromise the rigorous standards currently governing the sector.
A controversial proposal to integrate au pairs and nannies into Australia's formal childcare subsidy framework has triggered a backlash over safety and oversight standards. Regulators and advocacy groups warn that prioritizing affordability could undermine the National Quality Framework's rigorous protections.