As National Child Protection Week draws to a close for 2025, the Department of Children and Families is reflecting on the week that was and reaffirming that its commitment to child safety continues every day.
This year's theme, "Every conversation matters: Shifting conversation to action", highlighted the importance of listening and acting. Acting CEO Raelene Burke said the message was especially relevant in the Northern Territory.
"Every conversation matters, but it's action that changes lives," Ms Burke said. "Whether you check in on a neighbour, become a carer or join our workforce, every Territorian has a role to play in keeping children safe."
Across the Territory, Children and Families staff, carers and community partners hosted and supported events to mark the week. A highlight was the 'Amplify, Promote, Strengthen' forum at Parliament House on Wednesday, co-hosted with NAPCAN and CREATE Foundation, where the voices of young people took centre stage.
"Children and young people with a care experience tell us that what matters most is feeling safe, loved and listened to," CREATE Foundation CEO Imogen Edeson said. "National Child Protection Week is an important reminder that every child has the right to grow up in a supportive family and community."
Ms Burke said the same principle underpins the daily work of child protection practitioners.
"In our work, we make sure that children and young people's voices are heard in the decisions that affect their safety and wellbeing. Listening to their perspectives and experiences helps us make better choices and build stronger futures."
In the Northern Territory, almost 890 children and young people are currently living in out-of-home care, with around 380 placed with foster or kinship carers. Foster and Kinship Carer Association NT CEO Amanda Thompson said carers remain at the heart of child protection.
"Foster and kinship carers open their homes and hearts to children who need them most," Ms Thompson said. "Carers come from all walks of life, but they share one thing in common - a commitment to making sure children feel safe and supported."
Ms Burke added, "our carers are partners in this work. We are deeply grateful for their dedication and encourage more Territorians to consider becoming a carer or to choose a career in child protection - it's challenging, but it's some of the most rewarding work you can do."
Throughout the week, teams across regions delivered activities such as a kid's colour run and family fun day in Wurrumiyanga, a Foster and Kinship Carer Celebration in Darwin, community BBQs in Arnhem and Maningrida and a school workshop in Ntaria with the National Children's Commissioner.
NAPCAN CEO Leesa Waters said the week's conversations must lead to lasting action: "conversations about preventing child abuse are important, but conversations alone are not enough. True accountability requires action, and every discussion must translate into tangible steps to protect children."
Child Protection Week may be finishing, but the need for carers and practitioners continues.
· consider a career in child protection with the Department of Children and Families here
· become a foster or kinship carer here
· support carers in your community
· call the 24/7 Child Protection Hotline (1800 700 250) if you believe a child is at risk of harm here.
"Child Protection Week is a moment in time, but our commitment to keeping children safe is year-round," Ms Burke said
