The head of one of Australia's largest childcare providers has defended the safety record of the massive operation he oversees but apologised for harm to children that took place in his centres.

Challenges facing the heavily scrutinised sector were acknowledged by Affinity Education Group leader Tim Hickey as he fronted a NSW parliamentary inquiry.

Shocking allegations of children being sexually abused, restrained for hours and served low-quality meals at for-profit centres have been revealed by Greens MP Abigail Boyd, who has been scathing of private equity firms investing in providers.

Quadrant Private Equity, which owns furniture giants Amart Furniture and Freedom, bought publicly listed Affinity in 2021 for $650 million.

Ms Boyd peppered Mr Hickey with questions on Tuesday about th

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