Thomas brought forward a motion calling for the release of documents relating to serious incidents and regulatory breaches in early childhood education and care centres over the last five years.
The ACT reported the highest rate of serious incidents in the country last year, and the purpose of this motion was to determine whether that was a consequence of better reporting practices or of a higher frequency of incidents. It also sought to make clear whether the early childhood sector is being appropriately regulated to prioritise children’s safety.
Similar motions have been passed recently in New South Wales and Victoria, with the former revealing a number of alarming incidents in the sector. Recent horrifying events reported in Victoria also reiterate the importance of strong regulation.
While ACT Labor indicated it did not support the motion, it was passed with the support of the Canberra Liberals, the ACT Greens, and independent MLA Fiona Carrick.