Alarm Raised as Queensland Child Protection Cases Highlight System Failures

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A recent report by the Child Death Review Board revealed that 53 children known to the child protection system in Queensland died during 2023-24, a decrease from 72 deaths in the previous year. Among the troubling cases was that of a child pseudonymously named Alex, who was provided a tent to live in after being banned from all residential care facilities due to behavioral issues. During their time in care, Alex had expressed suicidal thoughts but was ultimately left homeless for over six months before their tragic death, prompting criticism of the system's effectiveness in safeguarding vulnerable children.

The report noted that many children in the residential care system face incessant trauma, reiterating the need for more reliable care options. “The system which existed to protect and care for her appeared ineffective at being able to address or stop this further trauma,” it stated regarding another case involving a young mother. Queensland's Child Safety Minister Amanda Camm acknowledged the board's recommendations, stating that the government aims to enhance care arrangements and establish a dual-carer model in the residential care system.

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