Safety and Security
The i9 SafeSteps Framework is a proactive child safety initiative by i9 Education Australia, designed to uphold our unwavering commitment to the protection, well-being and dignity of every child in our care.
Guided by our belief that children are our future, this program aligns with the Victorian Child Safe Standards and provides a clear, structured framework to embed safe, inclusive and accountable practices across all our centres.
Structured around nine core focus areas and inspired by our CARE values: Create, Aspire, Respect, Empower, the i9 SafeSteps Program is our organisation-wide commitment to creating environments where children feel safe, heard, and supported every day.achieving genuine child safety requires collaboration at every level.
This means management is working closely with educators, families, children, regulatory bodies, government, and the wider community, ensuring that no blind spot is left unchecked.
To CREATE safe and nurturing environments for every child. Through well-designed policies, safe spaces, and consistent practices, we proactively prevent harm and promote each child’s emotional and physical safety.
To ASPIRE for excellence in safeguarding standards and practice. We lead with ambition, continuously improving our systems, training, and leadership accountability to exceed the Child Safe Standards.
To RESPECT the rights, voices, and identities of all children and families. By fostering inclusive relationships, cultural safety, and open communication, we build trust and protect every child’s dignity and uniqueness.
EMPOWER our people and communities to act with vigilance and confidence. We equip staff, families, and children with the knowledge, tools, and voice to identify, prevent, and respond to risks—together creating a culture of shared responsibility.
i9 Education
At i9 Education Australia, the safety of every child is not just a responsibility—it is our absolute priority. The i9 SafeSteps Framework reflects our deep commitment to taking every possible action to protect, support, and empower the children entrusted to our care.
This initiative is more than a compliance exercise; it is a cultural commitment. We are strengthening our systems, training our teams, reviewing our practices, and embedding safety into the heart of everything we do. We are leaving no blind spot unchecked.
We’re committed to partnering with you, our families, to create the safest possible environment for every child to thrive. Together, we will build not only a strong and resilient child safety shield, but a new standard—one that positions Australian childcare as the best in the world and safeguards the future of our nation.
Let us move forward with purpose, vigilance, and unity. Together, we will build this shield.
At i9 Education, we follow a “See Something, Say Something” approach. You’ll see this message displayed throughout our centres as a reminder for families and team members to raise any concerns or report suspicious activity.
All reports are taken seriously and managed in line with our Child Protection Policy. Confidentiality is always respected.
The i9 SafeSteps Framework is i9 Education’s structured child safety initiative. It’s designed to protect every child’s wellbeing through strict policies, staff training, community engagement, and clear reporting processes. It aligns with the Victorian Child Safe Standards.
It’s a proactive reminder for families, staff, and visitors. If you notice anything concerning, suspicious, or unsafe, you’re encouraged to report it directly to our team or through our i9 SafeSteps reporting channels.
Yes. Every i9 team member completes mandatory child safety training and refreshers. This ensures staff know how to identify, prevent, and respond to risks.
We have a Safe People & Hiring process that includes:
Our curriculum includes age-appropriate protective behaviours. Children are taught about body safety, consent, and how to seek help when needed, always in a way that’s sensitive and empowering.
We prioritise respectful, culturally inclusive practices. That includes supporting Aboriginal children and families, celebrating diversity, and maintaining inclusive policies.
Parents searching for a safe, trustworthy childcare service can expect:
