Statement from Acting Premier Paul Lucas: Review by Children's Commissioner

Statement from Acting Premier Paul Lucas:

The death of any child is a tragedy, even more so when it occurs in circumstances such as this and my deepest sympathies are with the family at this time.

Like all Queenslanders, the State Government wants to see justice served in this matter and I will not do anything to prejudice ongoing police inquiries or any potential court proceedings.

There are currently several investigations underway into this issue including a police investigation, which may result in further action.

As with the death of any child known to the Department of Child Safety, there will be a two-part independent review.

Queensland Health is conducting a separate review.

It would not be appropriate to pre-empt the results of either review.

This afternoon, I have written to the Children’s Commissioner and asked that she examine the systems, policies and practices of all agencies to determine if any further measures could be taken across government to reduce the likelihood of similar tragic events in the future.

Under the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Act 2000, the Commissioner has the authority to review matters impacting the safety of children.

This will be an independent review with a primary focus on the safety of Queensland children.

The Act states:

(1) In performing the commissioner’s functions and exercising the commissioner’s powers, the commissioner—

(a) must act independently and in a way that promotes and protects the rights, interests and wellbeing of children; and

(b) is not under the control or direction of the Minister.

I am confident the Children’s Commissioner will be able to provide government with a thorough, independent assessment of what has taken place and if there is anything that can be done to reduce the likelihood of similar tragic incidents in the future.

Media inquiries: Robert Hoge 0419 757 868