More than 200 new child protection workers have been hired in Victoria in the past year as the Andrews Labor Government works to keep children and young people safe.
This milestone is a direct result of the state’s biggest ever boost to the child protection workforce in last year’s Victorian Budget 2015/16, and goes above and beyond the target of 148 workers.
The new workers will meet the recent growth in child protection reports, which is largely underpinned by family violence.
The hiring blitz has brought on 184 child protection workers and 32 advanced child protection workers, including:
- Twelve new family violence specialist child protection workers
- Four dedicated child protection practice leaders identifying children at risk of sexual exploitation – working with Victoria Police to prevent it and supporting young people to recover
- Six additional child protection workers in the Child Protection After Hours Emergency Service, to help reduce call waiting times and undertake visits related to urgent reports
This robust workforce will provide vital help to families in crisis and has a direct, positive and lasting impact on vulnerable children.
The Labor Government is transforming the child protection system so the focus shifts from crisis response to prevention and early intervention.
Through the Roadmap for Reform, the Government is implementing an overhaul of the broader child protection system aligning with the Royal Commission into Family Violence recommendations.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos
“The Andrews Labor Government is boosting the child protection workforce so that Victorian kids can lead safe, happy and healthy lives.”
“The former Liberal Government failed to meet demand for the essential services child protection workers provide. By contrast, we know the importance of keeping kids safe, and giving them the opportunity to reach their potential.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020