Child Protection

In reply to Ms SANDERSON (Adelaide) (28 March 2017).

The Hon. S.E. CLOSE (Port Adelaide—Minister for Education and Child Development, Minister for Higher Education and Skills): I have been advised:

As at the end of March 2017 there were a total of 159 children in out of home care recorded as having come into care because there was no caregiver available, willing or able to provide care.

There were an additional 280 children in out of home care at the end of March 2017 who were recorded as having come into care under a three month Voluntary Care Order. These short term Voluntary Care Orders are utilised where there is agreement by the parents to place the child in care. This can include children whose parents are experiencing difficulty in providing the necessary care for their child.