SNAICC and Family Matters have launched a joint position paper calling for the establishment of a national commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people.
The digital release of the policy paper is designed to coincide with National Children's Week this Thursday October 24.
Establishing a dedicated national commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children will provide much needed oversight and accountability for systems and services, ensuring that the rights of our children are protected.
Richard Weston newly appointed CEO of the Secretariat of national Aboriginal Islander Child Care (SNAICC) says the policy paper stems from one of Family Matters’ campaigns highlighting a national crisis.
“We have a crisis with Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander children going in out-of-home care at increasing numbers,” Richard Weston said in our interview.
Multiple campaigns have also unveiled that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and young people experience disproportionately high levels of discrimination.
Richard Weston adds that having a dedicated commissioner would help keep governments accountable and maintain a focus on addressing this situation.
The policy paper was developed by SNAICC- National Voice for our Children, Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Protection Peak (QATSICPP) with support from Stockman Consulting.
The paper has also been endorsed by over 70 organisations as well as several children’s’ commissioners and guardians from across Australia.