Protecting children is everyone’s business, Minister says at Goodstart visit

Helping children by supporting their parents is a core focus of this week’s Child Protection Week initiatives, Queensland Minister for Child Safety Di Farmer said during a visit to Goodstart Early Learning in Townsville recently. 

Queensland’s child protection week runs until 7 September, with Ms Farmer saying the week represents a “great opportunity for all Queenslanders to get involved and learn more about their role in keeping children safe”.

The central message for this year’s National Child Protection Week message is that children do well when parents are supported.

“More parents than you might realise want to know how they can be better parents, and for parents that are finding things a bit tough, early intervention can nip problems in the bud before they become bigger issues.”

As well as supporting parents, Child Protection Week serves as a timely reminder that keeping children safe is everyone’s business. 

Ms Farmer noted that early childhood educators, as mandatory reporters, have an important role as part of the community by identifying children who might be at risk and reporting their concerns.

“This week, Goodstart Early Learning are asking local businesses, community leaders, and members of the community to come in to the centre to make a personal pledge to make child protection their business,” she said. 

The Queensland Government has committed to a number of programs and supports available to parents and carers to help them navigate the difficult times raising a family.

“These include giving parents free access to the Triple P Positive Parenting program, rolling out Family and Child Connect and Intensive Family Support Services across the state, and providing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families with culturally appropriate support through Family Wellbeing Services,” the Minister said.

“While this week is about how we can all protect children and young people, it is also an opportune time to recognise the tireless dedication and commitment of the people who work in the child protection support area.”

To get involved in the 33rd annual awareness raising Child Protection Week, and find what events are on in your area, visit the website here.