CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION STARTS WITH THE COMMUNITY

Child Safety Minister Margaret Keech today called on all Queenslanders to take a tough stand against child abuse.

Mrs Keech made her passionate plea to mark World Day for Prevention of Child Abuse.

“My Department received almost 72,000 calls about alleged child abuse and neglect in the past year,” she said.

“Child abuse is not an issue solely for any one Government – this is an issue which needs to be owned by all members of the community,” Mrs Keech said.

“Unfortunately child abuse is occurring in every region.

“It takes a community to raise a child and a neighbourhood to keep one safe.

“I am urging Queenslanders to take a stand against child abuse: report it, don’t turn a blind eye to it.”

Mrs Keech said there are currently well over 7,000 children in care in Queensland because they can not live safely at home.

“Protecting children from abuse is everyone’s responsibility and on World Day for Prevention of Child Abuse I’m calling on the community to play their role,” she said.

“The Bligh Government’s Toward Q2 sets the benchmark for creating a fairer state, but it cannot be done alone. This is a whole of community issue.

“I urge everybody to look out for their neighbours and offer support where it’s needed.

“This means taking notice of your friends and neighbours and getting to know them better over a cup or tea.

“Such simple gestures help develop support networks that provide families with the extra help when times are tough.

“I remain convinced that most incidents of child abuse can be prevented before my Department has to become involved.

“I urge all Queenslanders to become more connected with your community, your neighbours, your friends and family."

ENDS

Lisa Taylor 3224 7081

Matthew Hyde 3235 9236