Thousands of children bunk down in out of home care every night amid state care crisis
An increasing number of children are needing out-of-home care every year, with hundreds removed permanently from their parents care amid fears for their safety. But the system is groaning under pressure with shocking cases.
VIC News
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More than two children are being removed from their homes and taken into state care every day in Victoria, with many never to be returned to their parents amid fears for their wellbeing.
Victoria’s child protection system is reaching crisis levels with up to 8000 children bunking down in out-of-home care any given night.
Meanwhile, the Children’s Court annual report revealed more than 400 children were removed on a permanent basis annually.
The report also warned the number of children “in need of protection from abuse, neglect or harm” was rising.
In 2017/18, 5567 primary applications were filed with the court, this rose to 5866 last financial year.
Child Protection Minister Luke Donnellan said the state was doing what it could.
“Nothing is more important than the safety and wellbeing of our children and young people, which is why we introduced child safety standards across Victoria and strengthened our mandatory reporting laws,” he said.
“Because of these reporting changes and population growth we’ve seen an increase in reports to child protection, making it even more critical we have the staff and resources to keep our children safe.”
The rise in figures comes after an alarming report released last year revealed dozens of Victorian children had taken their lives after falling through the cracks of the child protection system.
According to the Commission for Children and Young People, 35 children aged 12 to 17 took their own lives between 2007 and 2019.
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Most of the children had experienced family violence at home and had suffered serious neglect, with reports of sores, loss of teeth and lice.
The government has invested in new programs and support services since 2014 and one out of nine children are now allocated a dedicated social worker when they enter the system.
The government has also heavily invested in recruiting foster carers with more than 900 now being registered – but more are always needed.
For more information on foster care, visit fosteringconnections.com.au