In a significant move to bolster child safety, South Australia has enacted a ban on personal devices (such as mobile phones) in all childcare centres and preschools across the State. They join Victoria, who announced a similar ban last month.

This new policy aims to prevent potential misuse of technology and enhance the protection of children in early learning environments.

Here are the key details:

  • Implementation Date: 1st September 2025
  • Scope: Applies to all childcare centres and preschools in South Australia
  • Prohibited Devices: Personal mobile phones, tablets, and devices capable of taking photos, videos, or transferring files
  • Enforcement: Unannounced inspections by the Education Standards Board (ESB)
  • Penalties: Fines up to $50,000 or suspension for non-compliant centres

This initiative follows a nationwide push for stricter child protection measures, particularly after high-profile abuse cases in Victoria.

National Implications: Aligning with the National Model Code

In July 2024, ACECQA announced the National Model Code for Early Childhood Education and Care – a set of recommended child safe practices for the use of electronic devices when taking, sharing and storing images or videos of children in early childhood education and care (ECEC) services.

The recommendations covered 3 main areas:

  • Use of Service-Issued Devices: Encouraging the use of service-issued devices for documentation purposes
  • Restricted Personal Device Use: Limiting personal device use to essential communication only
  • Strict Storage Controls: Implementing stringent controls for storing and retaining images and videos

While the code remains voluntary, its adoption is strongly encouraged to ensure child safety and compliance with national standards.

So far, two states have implemented regulations in line with these recommendations, and it remains to be seen if more states will follow suit.

How Childcare Centre Providers Can Prepare

Regardless of location, childcare centres should proactively adapt to these emerging trends to stay compliant, foster trust with families, and protect children. Here are some actionable steps you can take to align with the National Modal Code:

  • Review Policies: Update policies to align with the National Model Code and state-specific regulations.
  • Staff Training: Conduct training sessions on the appropriate use of electronic devices and data security.
  • Implement Secure Systems: Adopt secure platforms for documentation and communication to protect children’s information.
  • Engage Families: Inform families about the changes and the importance of these measures for child safety

By proactively addressing these areas, services can ensure a safer environment for children.

OWNA: Your Partner in Child Safety and Compliance

At OWNA, we recognise the growing importance of safeguarding children’s privacy online. That’s why we’ve recently committed to enhancing our childcare management platform with features designed to support providers in keeping children and their data safe when using OWNA.

  • App Restrictions for Staff: Providers will be able to lock staff out of the app during certain times of the day (i.e. after hours), so they can only access rosters and the staff messageboard on personal devices.
  • Manual Lockout: if a staff member is on holiday or an extended period of leave, you can submit a 24/7 restriction on that specific profile, meaning they won’t have any access to the app until they’re back.
  • PIN Access to Re-Open: If a user has been inactive for a certain period of time or closed the app, they’ll need to use their PIN to get back in. This means that if your device is stolen or in the wrong hands, access to the OWNA app will be protected.

By leveraging OWNA’s secure and compliant platform, childcare providers can confidently align with both South Australia’s new regulations and the broader National Model Code.

Want more tips for using devices responsibly? Check out our guide on How To Set Up Devices In Your Childcare Centre for Software Success

Take Action Now

Child safety is everyone’s responsibility. South Australia’s ban on personal devices is a clear signal that the childcare sector must evolve its practices around technology and privacy.

If you’re a childcare provider or manager:

  • Start reviewing your policies and procedures today.
  • Train your team on best practices for device use and privacy.
  • Explore how OWNA’s enhanced platform can help you meet compliance requirements while streamlining your daily operations.

Together, we can create safer, more secure early learning environments for children.

If you’d like to learn more about OWNA’s features or schedule a demo, visit OWNA Childcare Software or contact our team today.