Operation Arctile

Operation Arctile is an AFP investigation that has led to a man, 26, being charged with allegedly producing child abuse material through his employment at out-of-school hours care (OSHC) facilities in the northern suburbs of Sydney between April 2021 and May 2024.

The Artarmon man has been remanded in custody since 12 October 2024 and does not pose a current threat to the community. It is important to note that all of the impacted families have been contacted by the AFP and NSW Health. Support services have been offered and continue to be provided.

Below is a list of locations in which the man has worked. Additionally, there is also access to NSW Health resources for support should you need it. We understand that this is an extremely challenging and difficult time for everyone, however the AFP, NSW Police Force, NSW Department of Communities and Justice, NSW Health, the Office of the Children's Guardian, and the NSW Early Childhood Education and Care Regulatory Authority will continue to work closely together to assist you in the ongoing protection of children and young people.

Locations and dates worked

Numbers and links for National Relay Service (NRS) users

The National Relay Service (NRS) can help you if you are deaf or find it hard to hear or speak to hearing people on the phone.

Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)

The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is an interpreting service for people who do not speak English and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients.

General trauma information

For further information and support following traumatic experiences:

• National Office for Child Safety | National Office for Child Safety
• Trauma - help for your reaction and recovery | Better Health Channel
• Trauma - reaction and recovery - translated information in 10 available languages

How to talk to your child about child protection concerns

NSW Health has provided resources to assist you with any conversations you may have with your children.

Before the conversation

Self-reflection

Before initiating the conversation, take time to reflect on your own emotions and be prepared to handle various reactions from your child. Consider which parent/carer is the most suitable person to have this conversation with your child.

Prepare yourself

Think about the emotional responses that your child might have during the conversation and how you can support them through this.

Choose the right time and place

Find a quiet, comfortable setting where you can have an uninterrupted conversation with your child. Make sure there is enough time for discussion without rushing.

The conversation

Use age-appropriate language

Tailor your language to your child's age and developmental stage. Avoid graphic details and use simple, clear language. When you speak with your child, it is important for you to be calm, supportive, and let your child tell you what (if anything) has happened in their own words. Use open questions (questions that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no).

Empathy and active listening

Practice empathy and active listening. Allow your child to express their feelings without judgment.

Encourage questions

Let your child know that it's okay to ask questions and express their feelings. Reassure them that you are there to support them and they are not in trouble.

Validate emotions

Acknowledge and validate any emotions your child may express, whether it's confusion, anger, or sadness. Let them know their feelings are okay.

Examples of what to say – suggested script

• How do you feel about going to (name of service)?
• What do you like about it?
• What don't you like about it?
• Who are the people in your life that you could trust if you were worried about something?

Note that: Closed questions can be confusing for children, and they may answer you with the intention of pleasing you instead of the truth, or what they want to say. This form of questioning can negatively impact on identifying the most appropriate support for the child and can also impact on ongoing investigations, including criminal investigations.

• "I have received information about (name of service) and it's made me want to talk to you about whether you have always felt comfortable and safe there. Can you tell me more about how you felt about going to (name of service)?
• It's my/our job as your (parent/carer) to keep you safe and you will never be in trouble for telling me/us about anything including anything you have been told to keep secret. You can always come to me about anything"

*This script is a general guide, and it's essential to be attuned to your child/children's reactions and emotions during the conversation.

After the conversation

If your child (or children) makes a disclosure relating to child protection concerns, try to stay calm and give some positive messages of belief and support including:

• I believe you
• You're brave for telling me about it
• What has happened is not your fault
• I'm here for you and will support you

Find a private space and call the Child Protection Helpline on 132 111 and let them know of your child's disclosure and the after-school care provider they attend/ed.

Seek support from the above services if you and/or your child have found the conversation upsetting.