14Functions as integrated sector regulator

14 Functions as integrated sector regulator

(1) The Regulator has the following functions—

(a) in relation to relevant entities for which the Regulator is an integrated sector regulator—

(i) provide education, information and advice on the Child Safe Standards to promote consistency in child safety outcomes; and

(ii) investigate, monitor and enforce compliance with the Child Safe Standards by relevant entities for which it is an integrated sector regulator; and

S. 14(1)(a)(iii) amended by No. 58/2025 s. 131(1).

(iii) collect, analyse and publish information and data regarding compliance with the Child Safe Standards by those relevant entities; and

(iv) promote continuous improvement by relevant entities in relation to the safety of children, the prevention of child abuse and the proper response to allegations of child abuse;

(b) exchange information and collaborate with persons and bodies in relation to the safety of children and compliance with the Child Safe Standards;

S. 14(1)(c) amended by No. 58/2025 s. 131(2).

(c) work collaboratively with sector regulators and other integrated sector regulators in relation to the safety of children and compliance with the Child Safe Standards.

(2) In carrying out functions under subsection (1) in respect of a relevant entity for which the Regulator is an integrated sector regulator, the Regulator must consider the most effective means of promoting compliance by the relevant entity with the Child Safe Standards.

(3) In carrying out functions under subsection (1) in respect of a relevant entity for which the Regulator is an integrated sector regulator, the Regulator may exercise any power of the Regulator under Part 6 or 7 (other than Subdivision 2 of Division 1 of Part 7 and Divisions 4, 6, 7 and 8 of Part 7) as if—

(a) a reference to "a registered social service provider" were a reference to "a relevant entity"; and

(b) a reference to a contravention of or failure to comply with (however described) "a provision of this Act" were a reference to a contravention of or failure to comply with "the Child Safe Standards".

(4) Without limiting subsection (3), the Regulator may, when appointing an authorised officer under section 103, specify functions, duties or powers for that authorised officer that relate to the investigation, monitoring or enforcement of the Child Safe Standards.

(5) An authorised officer described in subsection (4) may, subject to the instrument of their appointment, exercise any power of an authorised officer under Part 6 or 7 (other than Subdivision 2 of Division 1 of Part 7 and Divisions 4, 6, 7 and 8 of Part 7) as if—