National Model Code – taking and storing images of children in ECEC 

The Review of Child Safety Arrangements under the National Quality Framework (NQF) found child safety could be further enhanced in a number of areas, including in relation to the taking, sharing and storing of images or videos of children.

In response, the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA), in partnership with all governments, has released 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 recommended practices are outlined in a National Model Code. The National Model Code is voluntary while regulatory reform on these issues is explored by governments.

The National Model Code recommends that services adopt the following practices: 

• only service-issued electronic devices should be used when taking images or videos of children while providing education and care
• personal electronic devices that can take images or videos should not be in the possession of any person while providing education and care, unless for authorised essential purposes such as emergencies, health and family needs
• strict controls should be in place for appropriately storing and retaining images and videos of children. 

Many approved providers of ECEC services already limit or restrict the use of electronic devices. They are encouraged to consider and voluntarily adopt the recommended practices within the National Model Code. 

Adopting the National Model Code will support a child safe culture and assist approved providers and services towards any future regulatory requirements in this area.

The National Model Code has been designed for centre-based services approved under the NQF, whose primary purpose is to educate and care for children 0-5 years old (long day care and pre-school/kindergarten services). However, providers of other types of ECEC services may choose to consider adopting similar practices within their own contexts.  

Guidelines that accompany the National Model Code have been developed to assist approved providers with this process. A range of communications and engagement materials have also been prepared to assist approved providers to implement the National Model Code – in partnership with educators and other service staff, families and carers.