Residential Care Workers, Psychological Testing

In reply to Ms STINSON (Badcoe) (18 June 2020).

The Hon. R. SANDERSON (Adelaide—Minister for Child Protection): I have been advised:

All persons undergoing psychological assessment sign a consent form, which includes advice to the person that whilst psychological assessment information is confidential, relevant information may be disclosed if there is a requirement to share the information arising under the provisions of the Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017; or otherwise if required by law.

For the purposes of the Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017, the Department for Child Protection will share the outcome of a person's psychological assessment within the department or with relevant non-government organisations in connection with any current employment of the person, or application for employment, in a children's residential facility operated or licensed by the department.

The Child Safety (Prohibited Persons) Act 2016 requires that the employer of a person employed in a prescribed position must advise the Department of Human Services Screening Unit if the employer becomes aware of any assessable information in relation to the person. The Department for Child Protection has notified the DHS Screening Unit of any of its employees assessed as being currently psychologically unsuitable.