Policy paper proposing amendments to the Child Protection Act 1999
We are proposing amendments to the Child Protection Act 1999 to improve the care, protection and wellbeing of children as well as to resolve some current operational issues.
- Why is this consultation happening?
- How can I participate?
- What are the expected outcomes?
Why is this consultation happening?
The Department of Child Safety has developed policy positions proposing amendments to the Child Protection Act 1999 (CPA) to implement a range of new initiatives to improve the protection and wellbeing of children, as well as resolve some operational issues.
For example, the department is considering how the CPA can be improved by developing a framework of principles to determine the best interests of a child in all decision making under the CPA. Such a framework would provide practical guidelines to assist all decision makers to objectively weigh up the range of factors that should be considered in making sound decisions about the best interests of a child.
Safety and stability, either with parents or with a long-term carer, is the department's objective for all children in its care. The proposed amendments to the CPA will support this objective. The suggested changes would support the new One Chance at Childhood initiative, which recognises that children, especially in their early years, need love and attention in a safe and nurturing environment in order to thrive.
A policy paper detailing the issues and proposed policy positions has been developed for community consultation and input. It contains a number of themes concerning:
- improving decision making to promote children's safety and wellbeing
- improving stability for children
- enhancing the Department's ability to secure child safety
- gathering and sharing information
- enhancing support for unborn children and their mothers
- protecting staff.
How can I participate?
You are invited to provide input into the policy paper proposing amendments to the Child Protection Act 1999. Written submissions can be made on issues specifically raised in the policy paper.
The policy paper is designed to explain the policy issues, prompt discussion and promote submissions about the proposals from the child protection sector and the community.
Individuals and agencies are encouraged to draw upon their experiences of child protection with the Department of Child Safety. Written submissions will be analysed and considered as the policy response is further developed.
For further information, refer to:
- Child Protection Act 1999
- Child Protection Regulation 2000
- Progress in reforming the Queensland child protection system
- Blueprint for implementing the CMC report recommendations
You can make your submission by:
- Email:
- Legislation review - legislation@childsafety.qld.gov.au
- Mail:
- Child Safety Legislation Reform
Strategic Policy and Research Branch
Department of Child Safety
GPO Box 806
Brisbane Qld 4001
For further information about making a submission, contact the Legislation team on 1800 811 810.
All submissions will be stored and used in a way that respects your confidentiality and privacy. No names or identifying information will be published or disclosed.
Should information involve specific case matters or information that raises concerns about a child in care, the matter will be referred to the relevant child safety service centre.
The closing date for written submissions is Tuesday 8 July 2008.
What are the expected outcomes?
This consultation will inform the government's decisions about amending the Child Protection Act 1999 and is expected to lead to the preparation of amendment legislation to be introduced into the Queensland Parliament.
Related links
- Policy paper proposing amendments to the Child Protection Act 1999
- Child Protection Act 1999
- Child Protection Regulation 2000
- Last updated
- 14 May 2008
