Why Australian Schools & Childcare Centres Are Ramping Up CCTV in 2025 Leave a comment

In 2025, more schools and childcare centres across Australia are investing in CCTV systems than ever before. Recent high-profile incidents, growing community expectations, and evolving technology have all combined to make surveillance a key part of modern school security.

High-Profile Incidents Driving Change

Several news stories this year have highlighted serious failings in oversight at education and childcare facilities. In particular, two of Australia’s largest childcare providers — G8 Education and Affinity Education Group — announced nationwide CCTV rollouts after staff were charged with serious misconduct. These cases sparked a national debate about how to keep children safe and rebuild parental trust.

Similarly, Ballarat Grammar School in Victoria came under scrutiny after reports of misconduct in its boarding facilities. The school responded with several reforms, including installing CCTV cameras in common areas of its boarding houses, increasing staff, and improving night-time supervision.

These high-profile events have served as a wake-up call for schools and centres that have yet to prioritise security technology.

Protecting Against Vandalism and Intrusions

It’s not just internal incidents that CCTV helps address. Schools continue to face after-hours vandalism, break-ins, and even arson. In Sydney, police recently used school CCTV footage as part of an investigation into a series of antisemitic graffiti attacks. Cameras provided vital evidence and helped identify suspects.

For many school administrators, these events highlight the value of cameras not only for monitoring staff and students but also for protecting property and deterring crime.

Balancing Privacy and Safety

Despite the clear benefits, the increasing use of surveillance in schools has raised concerns about privacy. One parent in New South Wales even described her shock when she received highly detailed CCTV images of her child’s movements at school. These incidents illustrate the need for thoughtful, transparent policies that balance safety with students’ rights to privacy.

Technology is More Accessible Than Ever

Part of the trend comes down to cost and capability. CCTV systems are now more affordable and easier to deploy than ever. New features — such as AI-powered analytics, high-definition resolution, and active deterrent options — allow schools to get more value out of their security investments.

What Schools Should Do Next

If your school hasn’t reviewed its security system recently, now is the time. Begin by assessing vulnerable areas such as:

• Entrances and exits
• Car parks and bike racks
• Playgrounds and ovals
• Corridors and stairwells
• Perimeter fences
• Boarding houses and common rooms (if applicable)

Then, develop a clear CCTV policy that covers:

• Placement of cameras (and areas where cameras are not appropriate, like toilets and change rooms)
• How footage is stored and who can access it
• Privacy notices and parental communication

Final Thoughts

The events of 2025 show that cameras alone won’t solve all safety problems — but they are a vital part of a modern security plan. When combined with good policy and staff training, CCTV can help make Australian schools and childcare centres safer, more trusted places for students, staff, and families.