CHILD SAFETY MINISTER LAUNCHES CHILD PROTECTION DAY

Child Safety Minister Margaret Keech officially launched Child Protection Day at a ceremony in North Queensland today.

The official launch, held at Malcolm Park in Yarrabah was celebrated with a community BBQ, street entertainment and a film screening.

Mrs Keech said the Government was building a world-class child protection system, and every Queenslander had a part to play, as child protection was a responsibility shared by all.

‘Cuddy Cuddy Kowal Day’ or ‘Children calling out’ was about communities voicing the message that child abuse and violence would not be tolerated, she said.

“Child Protection Day is a community call to arms,” Mrs Keech said.

“I congratulate the Yarrabah community for showing such strong leadership by hosting this event.

“Today is a reminder that the safety and wellbeing of children is everyone’s business and it’s clear this community embraces that message.

“The Queensland Government is committed to tackling child abuse head-on and we need the people of communities like Yarrabah to lead by example – just as they have here today.”

“In the 2006 -07 budget the Government committed $551.3 million to helping build a world-class child safety system, so our most vulnerable children have the protection they need.

“But money alone will not fix the problems.

“Child safety is a social problem, not a financial problem, and that means every Queenslander has a role to play in ensuring that our children and young people grow up in a safe, loving and nurturing environment.”

Mrs Keech also praised the work and commitment of the department’s community partners.

“Over the past few years, we have developed many strong relationships with community groups, Indigenous groups and other government agencies,” Mrs Keech said.

“We work in partnership with these groups to ensure the best outcome we can for Queensland’s at-risk children and young people – these groups are on the frontline of child protection.

“$287.7 million, more than half the 2007-08 budget, was allocated to our community partners, and I am grateful for the work they do.”