Leaders in child protection attend Commission forum

Leading advocacy groups, academics and researchers recently joined the Commissioner to discuss how the sector could better work together to improve the lives of Queensland children.

At the Commission’s Research and Advocacy Stakeholder Forum, held on 18 February, participants discussed their key priorities for improving outcomes for the state’s children, and opportunities for improving information sharing and collaboration.

Commissioner for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Elizabeth Fraser said the forum aimed to connect organisations and individuals with a common goal – promoting and protecting the rights, interests and wellbeing of Queensland children.

“Improving outcomes for the state’s children and young people, particularly our most vulnerable, is one of the most important jobs in the state,” Ms Fraser said.

“The forum recognised that we need to work together to provide a voice for Queensland children and to keep their needs at the top of the government and community’s agenda to achieve improved outcomes for children.”

Ms Fraser said a key focus of the forum was sharing the Commission’s significant knowledge base.

“The Commission has a unique range of information and data based on direct contact with children, which provides an invaluable insight into the impact and effectiveness of services provided to children in this state.

“During the forum we discussed opportunities to better share our information resources, and to strengthen the joint advocacy needed so policy makers and the community are clearer about what is and isn’t working for the state’s children and young people,” she said. 

Ms Fraser said she was encouraged by the enthusiasm of participants, who expressed interest in continuing networking opportunities to achieve better outcomes for children.

Advocacy and service groups represented at the forum ranged from those who support disadvantaged families and work with children at risk, through to those providing support and advocacy in areas such as family planning and early childhood and education services. Researchers and academics also attended from a range of fields, including human services and social work, psychology, justice and law.

The Commission’s information resources, including policy scans, reports and research can be viewed on the Resources and publications section of the Commission’s website.

The Commissioner’s speech and PowerPoint presentation can also be viewed online.