Child Protection

In reply to Ms HILDYARD (Reynell) (23 September 2020).

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

Most children and young people in residential care of high school age are given mobile phones. In accordance with departmental policy established in 2015, decisions to provide mobile phones are made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account age, developmental age and maturity. Mobile phones are an important way for children and young people to maintain family and other social connections, as well as being important for safety.

The department manages the costs of mobile phones for children and young people in DCP residential care. For children and young people in NGO residential care, the service provider has the responsibility to manage these costs within contract funding provided by the department.