Speak up to stop child abuse and neglect

Child Safety Minister Tracy Davis is calling on all Queenslanders during Child Protection Week to speak up for children and young people who may be experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect.

Ms Davis said Child Protection Week was a timely reminder that we all had a role in protecting children and young people, particularly those that can’t protect themselves from harm.

“Child abuse can take the form of physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and neglect, it can involve a single incident or take place over time and the effects can last a lifetime,” Ms Davis said.

“While some children and young people show no obvious signs of harm others may present with a wide range of effects and present as behavioural, emotional or physical signs of stress.

“The most serious effects of abuse occur when no one takes action to stop the harm and protect the child or young person.

“If family members, friends or neighbours have noticed that something isn’t right or seen the signs of abuse or neglect they should immediately contact the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services or the Queensland Police Service.”

Act for Kids’ Dr Katrina Lines echoed the government’s calls for Queenslanders to act upon concerns of child abuse or neglect.

“We believe all children deserve to grow up in a safe and loving home,” Dr Lines said.

“Unfortunately child abuse and neglect is a very real social problem in not just Queensland, but across Australia.

“That’s why all adults need to play their part in child protection, and that can mean speaking up if you know or suspect a child is experiencing abuse or neglect.”

Ms Davis said her department provided funding to non-government organisations like Act for Kids to provide support services for at risk families.

“This includes the $4 million Fostering Families initiative which provides intensive, in-home and out-of-hours family support services to up to 300 families a year across the state,” she said.

“We are also currently considering the 121 recommendations of the Carmody Child Protection Commission of Inquiry’s final report, which will chart a new road map for child protection for the next decade.

“One of the overarching findings of the final report is a renewed focus on a stronger system that encourages and enables everyone to take responsibility for protecting children.”

To raise concerns about child abuse or neglect contact the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services on 13 74 68 (during business hours) or the Child Safety After-Hours Service Centre on 3235 9999 or freecall 1800 177 135. Or contact the Queensland Police Service.

For more information about how the Queensland Government protects children and young people visit www.communities.qld.gov.au/childsafety.  

[ENDS] 5 September 2013

Media contacts:         Media Contact: Minister Davis’ office 3235 4286

Act for Kids – Kelly Morgan 0409 751622