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Protecting children

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Child Protection Order

If it has been assessed that a child or young person has been harmed or is at risk of harm and requires protection, we will remain involved with the family for a period of time.

In some cases we will apply to the Childrens Court for a Child Protection Order. We will apply for a Child Protection Order in the following circumstances:

• if parents disagree with our department about their child or young person being in need of protection
• if parents are not willing to have contact with us to ensure their child or young person's safety
• if the child or young person's protection and care needs cannot be met while they remain at home.

There are a number of different types of Child Protection Orders.

• Some may direct a parent to do specific actions or require our department to supervise a child or young person's care. These orders allow the child or young person to remain at home in the care of their parents.
• Other types of Child Protection Orders can grant custody or guardianship of a child or young person to our department, a family member or other person for the duration of the order.

Child Protection Orders fall into two general categories:

• short-term orders - last for a maximum of two years.
• long-term orders - are granted after a decision is made that the best way to protect a child or young person is for guardianship to be given to our department, a family member or another person on a long-term basis. Long-term orders last until the child or young person turns 18 years of age.

For a magistrate to grant a Child Protection Order, they must be sure that the child or young person is in need of protection and that the order is not more intrusive than what is needed for the child to remain safe.

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Last updated

3 August 2007