QCT set to become Child Safe Organisation

The Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) is set to begin implementing the Child Safe Standards as part of Phase 1 of the state’s staged rollout, commencing on 1 October 2025.

This initiative, underpinned by the Child Safe Organisations Act 2024, aims to enhance the safety and wellbeing of children across various sectors, including education.

Phase 1 encompasses government entities, including regulatory bodies like the QCT.

As part of this phase, the QCT will work towards embedding the 10 Child Safe Standards and the Universal Principle into its operations. The Universal Principle emphasises the importance of culturally safe environments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

Organisations that are deemed to be child safe organisations, which are based and operating in Queensland, will be required to uphold 10 Child Safe Standards.

1. Child safety and wellbeing is embedded in organisational leadership, governance, and culture.
2. Children are informed about their rights, participate in decisions affecting them and are taken seriously.
3. Families and communities are informed and involved in promoting child safety and wellbeing.
4. Equity is upheld and diverse needs respected in policy and practice.
5. People working with children are suitable and supported to reflect child safety and wellbeing in practice.
6. Processes to respond to complaints of child abuse are child focused.
7. Staff and volunteers are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and awareness to keep children safe through ongoing education and training.
8. Physical and online environments promote safety and wellbeing and minimise the opportunity for children to be harmed.
9. Implementation of the Child Safe Standards is regularly reviewed and improved.
10. Policies and procedures document how the organisation is safe for children.

“Becoming a Child Safe Organisation reflects our deep commitment to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in Queensland,” QCT Director (CEO) Deanne Fishburn says of the change.

“As we enter Phase 1 of implementation, we’re embedding the Child Safe Standards into our culture and operations. These reforms reinforce our shared responsibility to prioritise child safety and ensure every child is protected, supported, and heard.”

For more information on the Child Safe Standards and Child Safe Organisations, visit the Queensland Family and Child Commission's website.