Frequently Asked Questions - Child Abuse
How many case of child abuse are reported each year?
In 2006/07 38,432 notifications of child abuse and neglect were made to the Victorian Department of Human Services. Of these, 11,296 required further direct investigation, and 6,920 were substantiated. See Child Abuse Reporting Statistics: 1992 to 2007 for more information.
I have to do an assignment/ project on child abuse ? what information is available?
Refer to the 'every child every chance' website for a number of useful resources.
Someone I know is being abused ? Where to go for help?
In Victoria, report suspected child abuse and neglect to the local office of Human Services (refer to the Protective Services Unit Contact List), or after office hours, call the Child Protection Crisis Line on 13 1278 (Victoria only), for the cost of a local call.
What is child sexual abuse?
The publication "Child Sexual Abuse - Understanding and responding", produced by the Child Protection and Family Services, provides definitions of child abuse, and includes the background information on what leads to child abuse, the effects it can have, and the recognition of child abuse.
What is the child protection system?
Refer to the publication titled "Child Protection System", produced by Child Protection and Family Services and available at this site
When should other professionals report abuse?
Child Protection workers investigate reports of possible child abuse, and to take action to protect the child or young person. Child Protection workers are authorised by the Children Youth and Families Act (2005) to investigate and ensure the safety of a child or young person. A risk management plan could include taking a child or young person into safe custody if they are in danger of immediate harm.
What is the role of child protection workers?
Child Protection workers are authorised by the Children Youth and Families Act (2005) to investigate reports where there is a concern that a child or young person is at significant harm and the child's parent or caregiver is unwilling or unable to protect the child from harm. Child Protection workers work with families to ensure support is offered to minimise the risk of harm to the child. If a child's safety cannot be ensured within the family, the worker may take matters before the Children's Court. Workers have an ongoing responsibility to supervise children on legal orders granted by the Children's Court.
Refer also to: Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005
When should other professionals report abuse?
Refer: Responding to Child Abuse Booklet