Child Employment in NSW: Office of the Children’s Guardian (OCG) takes over from DOCS

In November 2003 the responsibility for regulating child employment in NSW was transferred from the NSW Department of Community Services (DOCS) to the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian (OCG). As a result, employers of children in the entertainment industries (including stills photography) are now required to contact the OCG, to obtain authority to employ children or seek variations from the Code of Practice, with which all employers are required to comply.

Copies of the Code of Practice are available from the OCG website www.kidsguardian.nsw.gov.au. The Code of Practice is also contained within the publication A Guide to Child Employment in NSW which can also found on the OCG website. In addition to the Code of Practice, this useful document contains information on fees, responsibilities, conditions and regulations.

Should you need further information about child employment in NSW you can contact the Children’s Employment division at the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian. Level 6, 10 Smith St, Parramatta NSW 2150 Email: [email protected] PH: (02) 9025 4200 Fax: (02) 9025 4299.