Child protection

Disadvantaged Queenslanders are more likely to come into contact with the child protection system, which in turn places them at greater risk of intergenerational poverty and abuse. The task for policy makers in this area is to break that cycle. The stress induced by poverty, past abuse, neglect and substance abuse needs to be addressed early to avoid the need for costly and difficult crisis responses and the repetition of abuse and neglect in following generations. It is widely accepted that prevention and early intervention strategies are far more effective and economically viable than strategies introduced at the tertiary end of the child wellbeing continuum QCOSS urges decision-makers to ensure investment in this area is targeted to support families and prevent or lessen the effects of harm or crisis on disadvantaged Queenslanders, particularly those currently in or at risk of entering the child safety system. QCOSS works with colleagues such as Peak Care and the Commission for Children and Young People in providing a voice on behalf of vulnerable young Queenslanders.