New rules requiring early learning services to undertake strict screening checks and verify suitability to work with children are now in place as part of the Minns Labor Government reforms to keep children safe.
Approved providers and services must ensure all recruitment involves rigorous screening checks to verify each applicant's suitability to work with children prior to employment or engagement.
They must also confirm that prospective and existing staff are not subject to a suspension, supervision or prohibition notice, or an enforceable undertaking. Penalties apply where individuals provide false or misleading information.
Other new mandatory requirements now in force include whistleblower protection policies and training for staff to encourage a culture of reporting in early learning services across NSW.
The new measures come as NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Prue Car yesterday announced the appointment of Mr Darryl Currie as the ongoing Early Learning Commissioner.
Mr Currie has been acting in the role since 1 December 2025 and has played a central role in establishing the Early Learning Commission and driving significant reform across the sector during its formative period.
His appointment forms a key part of the NSW Government's nation-leading child safety reforms. The reforms are focused on ensuring every child in early learning settings is safe, supported, and receiving high-quality education and care.
Mr Currie brings extensive experience in education and public administration, as well as a deep understanding of statutory environments where the rights and best interests of children are the paramount consideration.
His ongoing appointment will strengthen the regulation, monitoring and accountability of early learning services across NSW, providing greater confidence for families and driving consistent, system-wide improvements.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:
"The Minns Labor Government is building a system where child safety and quality are non-negotiable, and an ongoing Commissioner ensures there is clear accountability at the heart of that effort."
"The Commissioner will play a critical role in ensuring strong oversight, high standards, and consistent regulation across the sector."
NSW Early Learning Commissioner Daryl Currie said:
"I am honoured to take on this permanent role and to continue working to strengthen early learning across NSW."
"Every child deserves a safe, high-quality early learning environment, and that will remain at the centre of my work every day."
"Transparency and accountability will remain central to how the Commission regulates and supports the sector, so that families can have confidence that wherever they access early learning in NSW, their children are safe and supported."
