Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington has congratulated South Burnett CTC and Uniting Care Community on receiving funding for programs to help young children in the South Burnett and Cherbourg who are affected by domestic and family violence.
Mrs Frecklington said CTC and Uniting Care have both received nearly $50,000 to support vulnerable children aged birth to eight years old who need protection.
“I was pleased to catch up with the South Burnett CTC Management Team to learn more about their project and talk about the need for this type of service in our area” Mrs Frecklington said.
“South Burnett CTC will run their program for twelve months through our local child care centres, schools and early learning facilities.
“Their aim is to help people working in the early learning sector to recognise signs of domestic violence in children and focus on early intervention.
“Unfortunately, there is an unacceptable level of domestic violence in our region and programs such as these will help protect little ones who, through no fault of their own find themselves caught in these situations,” Deb said.
Susan Jerome, CTC Children’s Services Manager said South Burnett CTC is a strong advocate for safe environments for children and adults alike.
“This program will provide information on how to report concerns and prioritise safety. For more information, people can contact me on 4169 0587,” Ms Jerome said.
Deb said this type of program will also help assist Mason’s Law, which is currently before the State Parliament for debate.
“The LNP Opposition introduced Mason’s Law in March 2016 to expand the mandatory reporting provisions to the Early Childhood Education and Care Sector, concerning child harm,” Deb said.
“The Parliamentary Committee has completed its inquiry into the proposed law and has recommended it be passed. This is an important reform needed to keep our children safe and the committee’s unanimous recommendation in favour of the bill is welcome.
“We just hope the Palaszczuk Labor Government commit to passing the bill, without further reviews or delays.
Photo: Deb with South Burnett CTC’s Kirsten Firman.
