Child Protection

170 The Hon. L.A. CURRAN ().3 November 2022). How many children remain in the custody of parents who are known to the Department for Child Protection as having tested positive to illicit substances within the last six months?

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries): The Minister for Child Protection has advised:

Where there are concerns that the safety and wellbeing of a child or young person is being impacted by their parent's, guardian's or caregiver's alcohol or other drug use (illicit or otherwise) or their ability to meet the child's or young person's unique needs is compromised, the DCP caseworker will arrange for assessments or interventions as required. These interventions may include removal. Drug and alcohol testing may be voluntary or directed, and forms part of the assessment.

Between 1 January and 30 June 2022, a number of children were living with parents who were known to the Department for Child Protection and had tested positive to illicit substances. Some of these children have been removed from these homes since 30 June 2022.