In July 2012, the Queensland Child Protection Commission of Inquiry was tasked with reviewing Queensland’s child protection system.
During the Inquiry, Commissioner Hon Tim Carmody SC has conducted public and private hearings in cities and rural areas around the state, met with young people in care, gathered information about residential care facilities, and listened to the stories of Queenslanders.
ACT for Kids has provided significant input to the Inquiry. In addition to making three written submissions to the Inquiry, ACT for Kids Regional Directors were invited to take part in local focus groups, and in some cases were able to provide one-on-one briefings about key issues.
The Queensland Child Protection Commission of Inquiry continues to collect information through hearings and Commissioner Carmodyis due to provide a written report of findings and recommendations to the Premier by 30 June 2013. This date was extended by two months to ensure enough time to seek feedback on a discussion paper of draft reforms released in February.
We hope this will be a catalyst for prompt improvements within Queensland’s child protection system, to provide better support to children and vulnerable families.
For more updates visit www.childprotectioninquiry.qld.gov.au