Two years since starting a review of the child protection legislation the, do-nothing Labor Government has finally introduced changes to the Child Protection Act.
LNP Shadow Minister for Child Safety Ros Bates said Labor had been dragging the chain on critical updates to child protection legislation, putting kids at risk.
“Two years to review a piece of legislation says Labor are not serious about continuing important reforms laid out after the Carmody Inquiry,” Ms Bates said.
“A full review of the Child Protection Act 1999 was a key recommendation of the child protection inquiry and since Labor came to power they have been slow to act.
“Only on the eve of an election has the embattled Minister finally acted – implementing LNP reforms once again.
“The child safety system has descended into crisis in just two short years of Labor Government.
“With no major legislative changes since the LNP made the tranche of reforms in 2014, the system has been going nowhere.
“It was the LNP’s that introduced a petition to offer permanency and stability for abused children.
“Other states have already made major changes to the way child protection responds to permanency planning.
“On top of that, Carmody recommended changes to how child deaths were reported and an opening up of information released following a child death.
“This review was one of 200 now chalked up on Labor’s watch and one that has been kicked into the long grass.
“While Labor dithers, children suffer and our child safety system spirals further into crisis.
“Only the LNP will deliver stronger families and a better Queensland.
