National Framework for Protecting Australias Children 2009 2020

National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children 2009 -2020 What's been happening and what’s next? Perth policy forum 18 September 2015

Agenda Introduction and aims 1. National Framework aims and achievements o Brian Babington, Families Australia 2. Third Action Plan and role of the Commonwealth o Dr Ros Baxter, Group Manager, Families Group, the Department of Social Services 3. WA Government perspectives on the National Framework o Kay Benham, Acting Director General, Department for Child Protection and Family Support 4. Discussion and close

1. National Framework: aims & achievements • • • COAG response to child abuse and neglect Australian children are safe and well Sustained and substantial reduction Public health model Key supporting outcomes Three-year action plans

1. National Framework: aims & achievements • • • Tripartite National standards for out-of-home care National Children’s Commissioner National research agenda Child Aware national initiative/conference

2. National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children: Third Action Plan and role of the Commonwealth Why is the Commonwealth involved: • Leadership • Opportunities from collaborative action • Third Action Plan – new directions • Bringing together policy levers

3. National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children: A Western Australian perspective So how is it relevant and helped in Western Australia? – A galvanising theme – Lays the foundation for ‘child protection is everyone’s business’ – Common understanding – keeping children safe – Tripartite approach - roles of each of sector/jurisdiction – Both ends of child protection: prevention through tertiary – Importance of the child’s voice - Viewpoint – National standards for OOHC

4. Discussion Comments and questions Why does taking a national approach to protecting children matter? What are the most important things that a national strategy on protecting children can and should do?