Respond to child abuse

Child Safety is the lead child protection agency in Queensland and is required by law to ensure that children and young people are safe from abuse, neglect and harm in their homes.

When we receive information about harm or risk of harm to a child or young person up to 18 years of age, and suspect that they may require protection, our child safety officers will determine the appropriate response to ensure the ongoing safety of the child.

Our role in protecting children and young people is to:

• offer help and support to families to reduce risk to children
• assess concerns that a child or young person has been harmed or is at risk of significant harm
• provide ongoing services to children and young people who are experiencing, or are at risk of experiencing significant harm.

Child safety officers conduct thorough assessments to:

• assess a child and family’s needs and coordinate help and support
• determine the protection and care needs of children and young people.

In deciding if a child is in need of protection, child safety officers will determine whether:

• the child or young person has suffered significant harm, is suffering significant harm, or is at unacceptable risk of suffering significant harm
• does not have a parent able and willing to protect them from harm.

If a child or young person's parents are unable or unwilling to protect them, Child Safety will provide help and support for the child, young person and their family.