Has NSW made CCTV mandatory for every childcare service?

No general installation requirement is established by the review recommendations. Check current NSW laws and regulatory updates for your particular service.

What notice does NSW workplace surveillance require?

The Workplace Surveillance Act 2005 generally requires written notice to employees at least 14 days before camera surveillance, visible cameras and signage at entrances. Seek advice for exceptions.

What is the NSW ratio for children aged 36 months to preschool age?

One educator to ten children in that age group. See the NSW ratios page for details.

Can existing childcare CCTV be used?

Usually, if the IP cameras and recorder are reachable and suitable. A camera review checks coverage and compatibility first.

Childcare CCTV in NSW: Supervision, Privacy & Provider Guide

NSW applies its own version of the National Law and the Education and Care Services National Regulations. Read national guidance subject to current NSW law and seek advice for your service.

What the independent NSW review recommended

Recommendation 1 proposed regulator discretion to require CCTV in certain services. Recommendation 8 proposed a CCTV condition on new non-family-day-care service approvals for children's safety and welfare. Recommendation 9 proposed CCTV in existing services in specific circumstances. These are review recommendations, not an across-the-board current mandate.

NSW National Law and Regulations

NSW applies its own version of the National Law and the Education and Care Services National Regulations. Check the current text and NSW regulator's guidance before relying on general national summaries. Services that use CCTV must maintain a written policy under regulation 168 from 1 September 2025.

Workplace Surveillance Act 2005 (NSW)

For workplace camera surveillance, give employees written notice at least 14 days before surveillance starts, ensure cameras are clearly visible and display signs at entrances. Obtain advice about consent, exemptions and your exact circumstances. Avoid audio and private-area recording.

Supervision and NSW ratios

NSW applies a ratio of one educator to ten children aged 36 months to preschool age. Staffing ratios do not replace active supervision, reliable counts and clear handovers. Check all age groups and current NSW requirements before making decisions.

Existing cameras and implementation

Map cameras against blind spots and private spaces, confirm network access and document authorised footage access. After a remote camera review, each centre receives a preconfigured device. Connect it to the network and it's running.

Where technology helps

SooperVision's AI-assisted alerts help identify defined supervision risks on compatible existing CCTV. This is an additional layer of visibility, not an educator replacement. CCTV supervision does not recognise anyone; optional adult verification modules require consent and are separate.

Sources

General information only, not legal advice. Check current requirements with your state or territory regulatory authority.