Hi I was just reading about how the standards for childcare centres have changed to require caregivers to physically check on the children more frequently. I was just wondering how this recommendation applies in the home environment and in particular when everyone is sleeping at night time. It’s not reasonable for frequent checks in the middle of the night but yet this would conflict with childcare standards. Secondly, at what age is it safe to have a cuddle toy in the cot? My child is 18 months.

The general regulations for supervision in Child Care have not changed but regular checking of sleeping children has been added in 2017.
Previous regulations stated that “children should be able to be seen & heard at all time, including when asleep”

Current ACECQA guidelines state -
Educators should closely monitor sleeping and resting children and the sleep and rest environments. This involves checking/inspecting sleeping children at regular intervals, and ensuring they are always within sight and hearing distance of sleeping and resting children so that they can assess a child’s breathing and the colour of their skin. 
https://www.acecqa.gov.au/resources/supporting-materials/infosheet/safe-sleep-and-rest-practices

Room Sharing - are you enquiring about home sleeping for parents or Family Day Care where overnight sleeping is provided?
Red Nose has the following information in relation to Room Sharing in the home which is recommended for 6-12mths
Parents are not expected to observe baby constantly. If baby is sleeping in a separate room check baby regularly to ensure that the baby remains on the back and the head and face remain uncovered
https://rednose.org.au/article/roomsharing

Red Nose has the following information about soft toys/comforters.
Keep soft toys out of the sleeping environment for babies under seven months of age because they may cover the nose and mouth and interfere with breathing.
Keep the cot free of large soft toys, pillows, bumpers, activity centres and anything else that could be ‘stacked’ to assist a young child/toddler to climb out of the cot.
https://rednose.org.au/article/can-my-baby-have-a-soft-toy

It is important to consider the size of the soft toy when introducing it, particularly for older child.