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New version effective 20 April 2026
This is the new version of the licensing criterion and associated guidance.
Criterion PF206#
There are spaces for the safe storage of children's play equipment, personal belongings, cleaning materials, and confidential administrative records.
Guidance#
How to show you are complying #
Each home will need spaces to safely store equipment and materials. The types of storage used will depend on what is being stored and if children need to access it.
Children’s equipment and belongings
Storage space for both indoors and outside equipment and materials will be needed.
Consider how existing storage space can be used or adapted. If more storage is needed, affordable options like baskets, shelves or stackable boxes can help keep items like art supplies, puzzles, books, and balls safely accessible to support children’s learning and provide children safe independent access their belongings.
When planning storage for safety:
- arrange storage so it’s easy to access, reduces congestion, and keeps everyone safe
- avoid stacking items on high shelves or over stacking the inside of cupboards to prevent the risk of items falling when accessing them
- consider the earthquake proofing of stored items.
Confidential administrative records
Any confidential administrative records kept in a home must be stored using a lockable cupboard, file box, file cabinet, drawer or room. This will help make sure only people who need to access confidential information can have access.
Cleaning materials
Cleaning materials need to be safely stored out of children’s reach.
A lockable cupboard (for example, with security latches) or high shelving in the kitchen or laundry area are examples of storage suitable for this purpose.