12 November 2025

Common gaps in safe use of digital technologies policies

Recent changes to Regulation 168(ha) of the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011 required all South Australian Early Childhood Education and Care services to implement a policy in relation to the safe use of digital technologies and online environments.

Preschools and Long Day Care services were asked to provide their assurance and a copy of their policies in line with the National Model Code to the Education Standards Board (ESB). Thank you for your prompt submission of these documents.

The ESB has identified common areas where services have not met a key requirement or element within their policies. These common areas are:

• Purpose of policy: The purpose of the policy must be clearly stated.
   
• Exceptions: The policy should cover all exceptions as outlined in Part 3 of the National Model Code. Exceptions commonly missed include technology failure, disability related and emergency situation.
   
• Storage protocols: The policy should outline storage protocols for images and videos as outlined in Part 4 of the National Model Code.

Approved Providers are encouraged to internally review and update their policies to ensure they have addressed all components of the National Model Code. There is no requirement to resubmit updated policies to the ESB.

The National Model Code Guidelines are available to support Approved Providers to embed the National Model Code within their policies.  For further information, visit the ACECQA website.

For all other questions, contact the ESB via phone 1800 882 413 or email educationstandardsboard@sa.gov.au