Child Protection

Child Protection Report

Urges PremierTo Early Election

Premier Peter Beattie has announced that Queensland will go to the polls on February 7th, saying a State Election is needed to clear the way for major reforms to Queensland's child protection system.

"We've had enough delays, we've had enough agony, we've had enough pain for Queensland children" Mr Beattie said.

A week earlier, the Crime and Misconduct Commission (CMC) released a report on child abuse, outlining the failings within the Queensland Families Department, making 110 recommendations for change.

Responding to the publication of the report, the Premier appointed reform specialist Peter Forster to ensure that the CMCs recommendations on child abuse are implemented as quickly and effectively as possible.

The Queensland Public Sector Union (QPSU), the union for child protection has already demanded a needs-based funding model for child protection services. Alex Scott, QPSU General Secretary had earlier written to both the Premier and the Leader of the Opposition urging a bipartisan approach to ensure the needs of Queensland's children are the first priority.

Related links:

The Premier's Media Statements
http://www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/News/

The Crime and Misconduct Commission
http://www.cmc.qld.gov.au/FCINQUIRY.html
Protecting Children, an inquiry into abuse of children in foster care
http://www.cmc.qld.gov.au/library/CMCWEBSITE/ProtectingChildren.pdf
Report Summary
http://www.cmc.qld.gov.au/library/CMCWEBSITE/ProtectingChildren_Summary.pdf

© 2001 Community & Public Sector Union - State Public Services Federation (CPSU-SPSF) - National Office

http://www.cpsu-spsf.asn.au/latest_news/child_protection/20040114_protect.html
Last Modified: 15 Nov 2005