Statement from Child Safety Minister Di Farmer

Tiahleigh Palmer was the victim of an evil crime committed by Rick Thorburn.

This was despite Queensland having a strong and robust system for the approval of foster carers.

In the wake of her tragic death, urgent reviews made more than 100 recommendations to make Queensland the safest state in Australia for vulnerable children.

The Queensland Government supported these recommendations. Implementation began before the reviews were completed and is continuing.

None of them are any consolation for Tiahleigh’s murder.

The best place for children is a loving home, and more than 5,200 foster and kinship carers are looking after more than 8,000 Queensland children.

Rick Thorburn deserves the fullest punishment. 

ENDS

Media contact:          Ron Goodman                       0427 781 920

Background information

Media statements regarding Tiahleigh Palmer and the reviews:

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2017/9/7/queensland-to-have-safest-outofhome-care-system-in-australia

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2017/2/20/palaszczuk-government-to-upgrade-information-sharing-over-missing-children

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2016/9/25/external-expert-panel-appointed-to-improve-foster-care-and-blue-card

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2016/9/21/queensland-family-and-child-commission-review-expanded

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2016/7/11/new-protocol-strengthens-response-for-children-missing-from-outofhome-care

Key reports:

•        When a Child is Missing
•        Review of the Foster Care System
•        Review of the Blue Card System