Regulatory standards are an effective way for regulators to address harms across society, and Victoria’s new Child Safe Standards aim to address issues on abuse within institutions. Emily Sanders, Director Regulation at the Victorian Commission for Children and Young People, outlines how regulators will use the standards to create safer environments for children.

The Child Safe Standards require organisations to take action to prevent abuse, undertake contingency planning in the event of an allegation of abuse and also to take action if an allegation arises. Commencing in July 2022, the new Child Safe Standards will replace those in force in Victoria since 2016 and will be more nationally consistent. The actions required by the Standards are supported by a body of evidence collected by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse of what works to keep children safe. New legislation to commence in Victoria in January 2023 will also increase the power of regulators to enforce the Child Safe Standards and increase sanctions.