Child Protection Review - Discussion Paper

In March 2002 the State Government announced a review into child protection in South Australia. Recent events had highlighted the need for an urgent, wide-ranging review of child protection legislation, services and practices.

In South Australia, child protection reports to Department of Human Services have increased by
61% over the past five years adding considerable pressure on that agency's capacity to respond.
Many families are experiencing unacceptable levels of disadvantage and, as a result, children
and young people are at risk. Strengthening and building family competence in order to reduce
the numbers of children requiring child protection intervention is a long-term goal and requires a whole of government approach.