Childcare giant hit with training orders and growth ban after ‘human mop’ incident

Childcare giant faces sanctions after ‘human mop’ incident

One of Australia’s largest early childhood education providers has been banned from expanding and required to provide additional staff training following an incident where a child was reportedly used as a “human mop” by a worker.

Regulatory action

The NSW Department of Education ordered the childcare company to stop opening any new centers until mandatory training across all facilities is completed. The directive follows an investigation into a disturbing episode at one of its centres where a staff member allegedly dragged a child across the floor using a cleaning cloth.

Details of the incident

According to the education regulator, CCTV footage showed the educator using a wet cloth to pull the child along the floor as if cleaning. The behaviour was described by authorities as “unacceptable and in breach of child safety standards.” The staff member involved was immediately suspended and later dismissed.

Company response

In an official statement, the childcare group expressed deep regret over the incident, adding:

“We are cooperating fully with the Department and have reinforced our zero-tolerance policies regarding inappropriate behaviour.”

The organization has initiated a comprehensive internal review and promised to improve training on child safety and professional conduct.

Broader implications

The Department stated that the temporary restriction on new service approvals will remain until the provider proves all staff have completed certified child protection and ethical care training. The move is intended to ensure systemic issues are addressed and child safety remains the primary focus.

NSW Education Department officials emphasized that maintaining trust in early learning environments requires both accountability and transparency.

Author Summary: Australian childcare provider sanctioned with a growth ban and mandatory training after a worker used a child as a “human mop,” prompting regulatory reforms for staff safety practices.

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Daily Telegraph Daily Telegraph — 2025-11-28

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