Authorities in Queensland have launched a thorough investigation following a distressing incident at a childcare centre in the state's south-east, where a 10-month-old baby suffered a severe injury resulting in the complete detachment of a finger.
The infant's right ring finger was entirely severed in an event that is believed to have taken place at the Active Kids Early Learning Laidley 2 Centre, located in the Lockyer Valley region on February 24. The incident prompted immediate medical attention for the baby, who required urgent care.
The centre, also known as Free Range Kids Laidley 2, is a privately operated facility located at 237 Patrick Street in Laidley and licensed to provide education and care to children from birth to over preschool age. It is operated by Nicholas Adrian Campbell ATF Campbell Childcare Trust and was last visited by the regulatory authority in July 2025.
The Queensland Department of Education confirmed it was investigating. In a statement, a spokesperson said the incident is currently under investigation, with no further information available at this time. Protecting the health, safety, and wellbeing of children attending early childhood education and care services is the paramount concern for the Queensland Early Childhood Regulatory Authority.
Under national regulations, approved providers must notify the regulatory authority within 24 hours of becoming aware of a serious incident. A serious incident is defined to include any incident where physical abuse of a child has occurred or is occurring at the service, or any allegation that such abuse has occurred or is occurring.
The incident comes as Queensland strengthens its childcare oversight framework. Amendments to the Education and Care Services National Law and National Regulations that enshrine stronger child safety and quality standards in legislation are now in effect, including new mandatory national child safety training requirements. The state government has allocated $12.7 million over four years to the Early Childhood Regulatory Authority, including funding for an additional 29 full-time early childhood regulatory officers.
The centre, which can accommodate 74 children, has previously attracted positive reviews from parents on childcare directories, with feedback highlighting the staff's attentiveness and educational programs. However, the current incident raises serious questions about supervision and safety protocols during routine care operations.