National Child Protection Week

All Australians are being urged to play their part in keeping children safe during National Child Protection Week this week.

Minister for Families and Social Services Paul Fletcher said it was an opportunity for everyone in the community to think about how we can work together to protect all children.

“By working together, we can provide more positive role models and safer environments for our children, and help to protect our children from harm,” Mr Fletcher said.

“A key element of prevention is awareness-raising in the community and connecting with local organisations to educate both adults and young people on appropriate and acceptable behaviour.

“This week, organisations, community groups and schools will be holding events across Australia to mark the Week and I encourage everyone to participate to build a child friendly Australia – one community at a time.”

Assistant Minister for Children and Families Michelle Landry said the Australian Government was committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, working in partnership with state and territory governments and the community to address this national issue.

“The Government’s efforts include the launch of the National Redress Scheme and the establishment of the National Office for Child Safety on 1 July 2018 as well as working with the Northern Territory Government on policy and programs for youth in the justice and child protection systems,” Ms Landry said.

“The National Office for Child Safety will have a national leadership role, working across governments and sectors, in the development and implementation of policies and strategies to enhance children’s safety and prevent future abuse.”

More information about National Child Protection Week and how local communities can play a role, is available at napcan.org.au.