Lessons From the G8 Education CCTV Rollout: What Schools Can Learn Leave a comment

The decision by G8 Education — one of Australia’s largest childcare providers — to install CCTV systems in all its centres this year has caught the attention of schools and childcare operators nationwide. This landmark move followed serious allegations of staff misconduct and has become a case study in how surveillance can play a role in rebuilding trust and enhancing safety.

Why G8 Education Acted

In early 2025, G8 Education faced public outrage after a staff member was charged with numerous counts of child abuse. Parents, regulators, and the community demanded accountability and stronger measures to protect children. In response, G8 Education announced a sweeping package of reforms, including:

• CCTV installation in all centres
• New policies giving parents input into who provides personal care
• Stricter bans on mobile phone use during shifts

These steps were designed to restore confidence and demonstrate a commitment to child safety.

How CCTV Supports Safety

CCTV was not presented as a cure-all, but as a crucial element of a broader safeguarding strategy. Cameras in common areas and entrances help:

• Deter inappropriate behaviour by staff or visitors
• Provide evidence if an incident is reported
• Offer parents reassurance that children are supervised
• Help management monitor compliance with procedures

By placing cameras in communal spaces — and avoiding sensitive areas like toilets and change rooms — G8 balanced the need for oversight with respect for privacy.

Lessons for Schools

While schools and childcare centres are different environments, the G8 example offers some key takeaways:

✅ Act Proactively – Don’t wait for a crisis to prompt security upgrades. Regularly review and improve policies and technology.

✅ Engage Stakeholders – Parents, students, and staff should be informed and have an opportunity to provide feedback on CCTV plans.

✅ Complement CCTV With Policy – Cameras only work well when combined with clear guidelines, training, and accountability measures.

✅ Respect Privacy – Install cameras where they’re effective and appropriate, and publish a privacy statement explaining how footage is handled.

✅ Monitor and Maintain – Ensure cameras are functioning properly, footage is stored securely, and incidents are reviewed promptly.

Moving Forward

The G8 story is a cautionary tale, but it’s also an example of how leadership can turn a crisis into an opportunity to improve. Schools and childcare providers who follow similar principles — transparency, consultation, and a comprehensive approach to safety — can strengthen their communities and protect those in their care.