Child Protection

In reply to Ms HILDYARD (Reynell) (22 September 2020).

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

Upon discovering evidence that a crime may have occurred, the Department for Child Protection took immediate and appropriate action in ensuring that South Australia Police was notified and that the young victim was provided with a range of supports.

Practice guidance is in place to empower departmental staff to take swift and appropriate action in circumstances such as these, and I support the approach that sees decisions about the safety and protection of children in care being made as close as possible to the child.

The chief executive was first made aware of this matter when the sentencing remarks were made public.