NT child protection system to undergo major reforms
An independent review found serious problems. The Northern Territory's child protection department had failed. A child died in this case.
The NT government has accepted all 45 recommendations from an independent review of its child protection system. The review came after the death of five-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby.
Former NSW police commissioner Karen Webb and public servant Greg Shanahan led the review. The review found child protection officers repeatedly failed to assess safety threats.
Kumanjayi was found five days after she was allegedly taken from an Alice Springs camp in April. The review found officers got 14 reports about domestic violence in her home over six years.
They never did a safety check. The government will check safety frameworks and require all carers to have a national criminal history check.
Indigenous advocates say poverty and poor housing in remote communities also put children at risk.
- 45
- Recommendations accepted
- 14 over six years
- Missed domestic violence reports
- five years old
- Girl's age
- Karen Webb and Greg Shanahan
- Review leaders
Why it mattersSystemic reform may prevent future failures. But experts warn the system needs investment in poverty and housing. This is needed to protect vulnerable children.
AustraliaThe NT is leading a national conversation about child protection standards; other states may follow with similar reviews of their systems.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
