The theme for ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Child Protection Week, Every Conversations Matters, serves as a reminder of the power of conversations to keep our children and young people safe and well.
Minister for Children and Youth, Roger Jaensch, said it is important that we talk about efforts to promote a safe and supported life for every child now and into the future.
“All children and young people deserve to have a childhood free from abuse and neglect,” Minister Jaensch said.
“We all have a role to play in building a society where children not only survive but thrive, with their rights respected and protected and their voices valued and empowered.”
Minister Jaensch said the Tasmanian Government is taking strong action to make meaningful and real change to keep children safe across government institutions.
“We have committed to implementing all 191 recommendations and 75 findings handed down in the Commission of Inquiry’s final report, in addition to our 30 interim actions announced prior to the release of the Commission’s report,” he said.
“Of the 191 Commission of Inquiry recommendations we have implemented 44 recommendations, or 23 per cent of all recommendations overall to date.
“This reform effort is the most significant reform ever undertaken in Tasmania, however, broader reform will require the commitment of all Tasmanians.”
Minister Jaensch said that in addition to these reforms, the Tasmanian Government has also launched a nationwide recruitment campaign for frontline positions within the Child Safety sector and announced a $4.52 million workforce package.
“The package includes an immediate 15 per cent market allowance and relocation incentives for eligible employees in the North-West and two payments of $5000 for all eligible employees statewide, which will commence when the agreement has been ratified by the Tasmanian Industrial Commission,” he said.
“These measures, as well as University scholarships and fee-free TasTAFE places providing qualification pathways, have been developed in direct response to issues raised by staff during the visits I have made to Child Safety offices in the North West, North and South of the State.
“We are continuing to work with the Unions in good faith so the latest workforce package can be registered so the benefits flow to workers as soon as possible.”
The Tasmanian Government, under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future will continue to develop stronger communities so that Tasmania is the best place to live, work and raise a family.
Anyone with a concern about the safety and wellbeing of a child can contact the Strong Families Safe Kids advice and referral line on 1800 000 123.
