Ombudsman oversight to help safeguard children


Released 25/07/2017

A new law is coming into effect this week as part of the ACT Government’s response to issues exposed by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

From 1 July 2017, organisations in Canberra providing services to children must report relevant allegations and convictions involving their staff to the ACT Ombudsman, as well as the results of any investigations.

This scheme is an important step forward in safeguarding our kids. It doesn’t replace existing child protection measures, but does provide an extra layer of oversight.

Kids and their families deserve to feel safe in our community, whether they’re at home, at childcare, at school, or in hospital.

This safeguard scheme is designed to make sure organisations know they have a responsibility to our kids.  It covers employees and volunteers who provide services to children, through our education system, health system, childcare, as well as all ACT Government Directorates and other organisations.

All organisations in the ACT that provide services to children are encouraged to find out how the scheme applies to them, and how they will meet their legal obligations from 1 July.

The ACT Government supports the work of the Royal Commission and is committed to supporting stronger child safe organisations in the ACT.

We all have a role in protecting the children in our community.

Detailed information about the Reportable Conduct Scheme is available through the ACT Ombudsman, at www.ombudsman.act.gov.au/reportable-conduct-scheme.

- Statement ends -

Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases

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