The Palaszczuk Government today received the Public Service Commission’s report around the death five years ago of Caboolture toddler Mason Jet Lee.
Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs Minister Leanne Linard welcomed the independent report into the circumstances surrounding the 22-month-old’s death.
“Mason’s death was an absolute tragedy,” the Minister said.
“He suffered cruelly at the hands of those who should have loved and protected him the most and they have been punished for their crimes.
“Five years ago, the department did not meet Mason’s needs and for that we are deeply sorry.
“Across Queensland, our communities and our frontline child safety officers have been profoundly affected by his death.
“Since then, significant changes have been made to strengthen the child protection system.”
The Palaszczuk Government has invested an extra $200 million for child safety services including:
- Increasing frontline and support staff.
- Appointing dedicated child-safety officers to work with hospital and health services.
- Boosting funding to services helping children and families most at risk.
Training and supervision of staff have also been improved and this week the government committed to an extra 153 new child safety frontline and support positions.
“But the work of Child Safety continues, to ensure that our most vulnerable children are provided with the protection and care they need to have hope and a future,” the Minister said.
