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More Child Protection Workers To Keep Ballarat Kids Safe

15 August 2016

The Andrews Labor Government is deploying more child protection workers to Ballarat to keep local children safe.

Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos today announced four new workers to help the local team protect children and young people when there are concerns for their safety.

The four new workers will work with local families in crisis and have a direct, positive and lasting impact on children and young people at risk of abuse and neglect.

The Labor Government’s first Budget included the state’s biggest ever boost to the child protection workforce.

Since then, nearly 300 child protection workers have been hired in Victoria – exceeding the recruitment target of 148.

We are also creating four new interstate child protection liaison officer positions, who will be responsible for the management of several thousand cases each year where families cross jurisdictional borders.

The liaison officers will ensure information is shared between Australian states and territories to prevent at-risk children falling through the cracks.

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 Labor 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

“We’re deploying more child protection workers in Ballarat and surrounds to meet demand and keep kids safe from abuse and neglect.”

“For the first time, dedicated interstate liaison officers will ensure children and young people who move across borders don’t slip through the cracks.”

“We’ve provided the biggest boost to child protection ever. It means more workers, more assistance and more support for children, families and carers.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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