Nothing is more important than ensuring all Tasmanian children and young people are safe, well and have bright futures ahead of them.
Minister for Education, Children and Youth, Roger Jaensch, said that National Child Protection Week (3 to 9 September 2023) is a time to focus on ways we can all work together to build communities that support children and families.
"This is particularly relevant now as the Commission of Inquiry into the Tasmanian Government's responses to child sexual abuse in institutional settings has delivered its report to the Governor of Tasmania," Minister Jaensch said.
"All children have a fundamental right to be safe and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they are – today and always.
"The Tasmanian Government is committed to working collectively to implement the Commission's recommendations and take strong action to ensure our systems and services are as safe as they can be."
This year's theme for Child Protection Week is 'Where we start matters'.
This strongly aligns with Tasmania's Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy – It Takes a Tasmanian Village, which has a particular focus on the first 1000 days of life because we know this is a critical time to set the foundations for children's futures.
Minister Jaensch said the 'village' included the dedicated staff and volunteers in the sector who work with children and young people to improve their safety and wellbeing.
"They do an incredible job, each and every day, to provide safety and stability for children and young people in Tasmania," Minister Jaensch said.
"This week, the sector will be sharing stories, ideas, expertise and resources to build up the collective capacity to improve the safety and wellbeing of children and young people."
Minister Jaensch said the Government has invested heavily in improving outcomes for children and young people who require child safety services, those in out of home care and those who come into contact with the youth justice system.
"The Rockliff Liberal Government will continue to put children and young people at the centre of decision-making processes that have an impact on them, and we will work collectively keep children safe and well."
