Child Protection

The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing has a statutory responsibility under the CYFA to provide Child Protection services for children and young people in Victoria under the age of 17 years in need of protection or, when a protection order is in place, children under the age of 18 years.

Child Protection provides services to children, young people and their families aimed at protecting children and young people from significant harm. When a child or young person is assessed as being ‘at risk’ within the family, Child Protection will – in the first instance and in accordance with the law – take reasonable steps to enable the child to remain in the care of their family by strengthening the family’s capacity to protect them.

When, even with support, a child is not safe within the family, Child Protection will intervene to remove the child and bring the matter before the Children’s Court. If the resumption of care by the parents is not possible, Child Protection will work towards an alternative permanent long-term family care arrangement, or an independent living arrangement, depending on the age and circumstances of the child or young person.

Once
Off