CCTV Installation Checklist for New Childcare Centres in NSW & VIC Leave a comment

Installing a CCTV system in a new childcare centre involves more than just buying cameras. In Australia, particularly in New South Wales and Victoria, early learning providers must meet stringent safety and compliance standards to ensure proper video surveillance is both effective and lawful. This checklist is designed to guide you through the key considerations and steps for a compliant and efficient CCTV setup.

1. Assess Your Centre’s Surveillance Needs

• Determine the size of the facility (e.g., number of rooms, entry/exit points, outdoor areas)
• Identify vulnerable zones: reception, sleep rooms (note: avoid cameras in bathrooms), playgrounds
• Consider future expansion — plan for additional cameras/NVR channels

2. Choose the Right CCTV Kit

Selecting a kit depends on your centre’s size and coverage requirements. Here are examples of suitable kits available at Security Wholesalers:

• 4-Camera HiLook Childcare Kit – Ideal for centres with 1–2 rooms
• 8-Camera HiLook 8MP Camera Kit – Suited for medium centres
• 16-Channel Hikvision Kit with 8MP Cameras – Great for large or multi-site setups

3. Understand State Compliance Requirements

Both NSW and VIC have surveillance laws that must be followed, such as:

• Informing parents and staff about surveillance practices
• Ensuring footage is stored securely and retained for no longer than necessary (typically 14–30 days)
• Installing signage at all entrances
• Avoiding surveillance in areas that violate privacy (e.g., toilets, change rooms)

Refer to NSW’s Surveillance Devices Act 2007 and VIC’s Surveillance Devices Act 1999 for specific legal expectations.

4. Select a Reliable NVR

Your NVR (Network Video Recorder) should offer enough channels for current and future cameras, and support features like motion detection and remote access. Consider options such as:

• Hikvision DS-7608NI-K2/8P – 8-channel, ideal for small-medium centres
• Dahua DHI-NVR4108HS-8P-AI/ANZ – 8-channel NVR with AI functions for advanced alerts
• Hikvision DS-7616NI-I2 – 16-channel, suitable for large centres with 10+ cameras

5. Decide on Camera Features

• Use 6MP–8MP cameras for detailed recording
• Choose ColorVu (for full-colour night vision) or AcuSense (for smart motion detection) if needed
• Select vandal-resistant turret or dome cameras for outdoor zones

6. Check for Network and Power Readiness

• Ensure you have Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches for easy cable runs
• Back up your system with Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) in case of outages

7. Arrange Professional Installation

Have a licensed technician install the system to meet legal and technical standards. Ensure camera angles comply with state privacy regulations and that they’re positioned with child safety and visibility in mind.

8. Provide Team Training

• Educate staff on camera coverage, data handling, and privacy requirements
• Limit access to authorised personnel only (Centre Director, Owner, etc.)

9. Maintain CCTV Signage and Notifications

Display clear signage at entrances and document your policy in parent handbooks. This builds transparency and trust with families.

10. Schedule Maintenance and Footage Reviews

• Set routine checks for camera functionality and footage backup
• Ensure storage limits aren’t exceeded and data is being overwritten correctly

Need Expert Help?

Contact Security Wholesalers today to receive expert guidance, product recommendations, and support for your childcare security setup. We proudly serve centres across NSW, VIC, and Australia-wide.