- Published:
- Wednesday 4 September 2024
The Allan Labor Government is celebrating the hard work of Victorians across the state who dedicate their time and skills in assisting children, young people and families.
Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn today attended this year’s prestigious Victorian Protecting Children Awards, where winners were announced at a special ceremony during Child Protection Week.
This year’s awards attracted a record number of nominations across 12 categories, recognising the incredible effort and commitment across the Victorian child protection and family services sector and in the community.
Among the winners at the awards is a therapeutic program improving the lives of vulnerable babies and children, and a case worker giving young people new hope.
Berry Street’s Take Two South-Metro Leadership Group, which tailors therapeutic service delivery for babies and children in Bayside Peninsula and Southern Melbourne, secured the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Protecting Children.
Bendigo & District Aboriginal Co-operative’s Garinga Bupup Early Intervention Program, which forges family relationships with expectant mothers, and creates a sense of community, trust and comfort in the mothers they work with, received the Walda Blow Aboriginal Children and Young People Award.
Sophie Doyle from MacKillop Family Services picked up the CREATE Positive Impacts Award, nominated by young people in the child protection system. They said Ms Doyle took the cloud of darkness above their heads and used its rain to help them grow, which gave them hope.
For more information about the awards visit dffh.vic.gov.au/victorian-protecting-children-awards.
If you’re passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of children, a career in child protection might be for you. For more information on child protection jobs visit childprotectionjobs.dffh.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn
“Every child has the right to a safe and happy childhood and these awards acknowledge the exceptional workers, carers and community members who go above and beyond to help Victoria’s most vulnerable children.”
“I’m proud to celebrate our outstanding Victorians who work tirelessly to keep children safe and families strong every day.”
“Congratulations to all the winners and all finalists and nominees have my thanks for their crucial work.”