The report reveals deeply concerning failures within the child protection and out of home care system, with thousands of children exposed to unacceptable harm, risk and exploitation while in the care of the State.
Key findings include:
- More than 11,000 incidents involving children in out of home care reviewed by the Commission this year
- Critical gaps between legislation and funding. For example, the Commission's legislated individual advocacy function has no dedicated resourcing
These findings confirm a system under severe strain. They show that children known to the system are still enduring harm, instability and trauma.
Despite repeated warnings, the Allan Labor Government continues to neglect the urgent reforms and investment required to keep children safe.
Shadow Minister for Children Nicole Werner said the findings demanded immediate Government action.
"This report should shame the Allan Labor Government. Vulnerable children are being harmed on its watch and the system designed to protect them is failing. These children do not get a second chance at childhood. They deserve safety, stability and a government that prioritises them.
"Victorian families must be able to trust that when a child is placed in care, they are safe, that reports of harm are acted on immediately and that the government responsible for their protection takes that responsibility seriously.
"The Liberals and Nationals stand ready to work with frontline agencies, community services and families to deliver a system that is safe, supportive and accountable for every child in Victoria."
