The Allan Government must take action to protect vulnerable children by addressing the failures within Victoria’s child protection system.
Despite years of reports and recommendations to reform Victoria’s child protection system under Labor, too many vulnerable children are being failed as cases of exploitation, abuse, neglect and tragic outcomes continue to rise.
Legal Aid data between 2019 and 2022 also shows every second person is residential care is being criminalised, with two thirds of children aged 10 to 14 in residential care having subsequent contact with the justice system.
A motion moved this week in Parliament by the Victorian Liberals and Nationals to discuss the crisis within Victoria’s child protection system was callously blocked by the Allan Government.
Shadow Minister for Child Protection, Roma Britnell, said: “Under Labor, Victoria’s child protection system is in crisis and Victoria’s most vulnerable children continue to pay the price.
“It’s clear that Victoria’s child protection system is an unsafe place for children and young people. It is in desperate need of reform.
“The cases of abuse and exploitation occurring are simply heartbreaking. This crisis requires immediate action to ensure that children in the care of the state are safe and have the best opportunity to reach their potential.”
