National Child Protection Week 2016 Working together to build stronger communities to protect our children (2)

02/09/2016
National Child Protection Week 2016 Working together to build stronger communities to protect our children. 

Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien today said National Child Protection Week will be observed between 4-10 September this year. 

This year’s theme is ‘Stronger Communities, Safer Children’ focusing on the important role communities serve in protecting and supporting children. 

“It is a sad reflection on our society that approximately 40,000 Australian children are abused or neglected each year, which demonstrates the need for everyone to do more to prevent abuse. 

“Throughout my policing career and in my new role as Federal Member for Wide Bay, I remain committed to working with our community to ensure children and young people are valued, nurtured and can live free from abuse and neglect,” Mr O’Brien said. 

“The most effective way to stop abuse is to report it, if you hear something, or see something, then say something. Contact the police or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.” 

Governments across Australia, together with the community sector, are implementing the National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children and the new strategies set out in the Third Action Plan 2015 – 2018 focus on prevention and early intervention. 

A paper released today by the Australian Institute of Family Studies, in partnership with NAPCAN, showcases existing evidence that stronger communities are fundamental to preventing child abuse and neglect. 

“Our communities are strong when there is a sense of belonging, where people know each other and where families are supported. There are long term benefits when you volunteer, connect with other families, run or support a local community organisation or program. 

“I acknowledge and thank all the volunteers and local services in our community for supporting families and children and who make Wide Bay a great place to live. I also thank the police who make our communities safer.” 

National Child Protection Week is an opportunity for all Australians—as community members, extended family members, neighbours, employers, employees, parents, carers or through other roles—to focus on how we can play a part in promoting the safety and wellbeing of children and young people. 

More information about National Child Protection Week is available at www.napcan.org.au.