WA gives $300,000 to support National Principles for Child Safe Organisations

The Western Australian Government is providing over $300,000 to support implementation of National Principles for Child Safe Organisations in the community services sector, with the Western Australian Council of Social Service (WACOSS) to lead the project.

The funding will be used to implement initiatives to support the community services sector to keep children safe. WACOSS will manage the project in partnership with the WA Department of Communities and other key stakeholders.

The project will support the implementation of the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and provide education and resources to build capacity across the community service sector, with a focus on small and medium-sized organisations.

There will also be an additional focus on working with Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) to develop culturally appropriate resources, to respond to the needs of Aboriginal children and young people.

The project implements recommendations from the Royal Commission to support organisations in developing strategies and actions that promote child wellbeing and prevent harm to children and young people.

“Keeping children safe is always our priority and it’s important we support our community service sector to do that,” said Child Protection Minister Sabine Winton. 

“Implementing National Child Safe Principles in community service organisations, such as family support services or day care centres, is a significant milestone in promoting child safety and wellbeing,” she added.