Ombudsman: State failing vulnerable children
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‘Today’s Ombudsman’s report into Victoria’s Out of Home Care system highlights the need for a better coordinated and well resourced response to vulnerable children and young people,’ says Chief Executive of VCOSS Cath Smith.
Community sector organisations also play a crucial role in improving the life chances of vulnerable children and young people. VCOSS members work daily with the challenges identified by the Ombudsman, and urgently require additional resources to enable them to provide high quality supports.
‘VCOSS applauds Victoria’s commitment to the best interests of children and young people, and has welcomed the recent reforms and budget commitments. However, further action and investment is required. VCOSS calls on the Premier and Treasurer to prioritise investment in a system that focuses on early intervention and proactive therapeutic responses. It is clear from the Ombudsman’s report that the current system is reactive and unsustainable.’
‘Better ways of working across human services, education and health must be prioritised. We need responses that go beyond child protection and include mental health, schools, medical care, disability, drug and alcohol, and housing. If these components of the system do not work together better, children and young people will be unable to have the future they deserve. Minister Neville’s announcements today are a step in the right direction.’
‘To ensure the life chances of these children and young people are guaranteed, VCOSS calls for the establishment of an Independent Commissioner for Children and Young People.’
For more information, or to arrange an interview
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VCOSS
Level 8, 128 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
T: 03 9654 5050 F: 03 9654 5749 W: vcoss@vcoss.org.au E: vcoss@vcoss.org.au