❓ Opposition questions the Minister for Community Development regarding the death of a baby after multiple contacts with the department, alleging systemic failure and demanding a royal commission. The Minister deflects, citing improvements since the previous government and increased resourcing.
AnsweredQoN 583Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
DEPARTMENT FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT - CHILD PROTECTION
(1) Will the minister confirm that in 2003 a two-month-old baby girl died after her family had 17 contacts with the Department for Community Development? (2) Why was this baby not considered a high-risk child after 17 contacts, and is this further evidence of systemic failure within the department? (3) Given that 214 children have died under this government’s watch, why will the minister not open up the department to the full transparency and accountability of a royal commission? Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN
(1) Will the minister confirm that in 2003 a two-month-old baby girl died after her family had 17 contacts with the Department for Community Development? (2) Why was this baby not considered a high-risk child after 17 contacts, and is this further evidence of systemic failure within the department? (3) Given that 214 children have died under this government’s watch, why will the minister not open up the department to the full transparency and accountability of a royal commission? Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. (1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
(2) Why was this baby not considered a high-risk child after 17 contacts, and is this further evidence of systemic failure within the department? (3) Given that 214 children have died under this government’s watch, why will the minister not open up the department to the full transparency and accountability of a royal commission? Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN replied: I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. (1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
(3) Given that 214 children have died under this government’s watch, why will the minister not open up the department to the full transparency and accountability of a royal commission? Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN replied: I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. (1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN replied: I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. (1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. (1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
(1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
(2) Why was this baby not considered a high-risk child after 17 contacts, and is this further evidence of systemic failure within the department? (3) Given that 214 children have died under this government’s watch, why will the minister not open up the department to the full transparency and accountability of a royal commission? Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN replied: I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. (1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
(3) Given that 214 children have died under this government’s watch, why will the minister not open up the department to the full transparency and accountability of a royal commission? Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN replied: I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. (1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN replied: I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. (1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. (1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
(1)-(3) We have debated in this place over the past month or so very important elements of child protection. It is very interesting to look back at the history of the previous government and what it resourced this department. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : Its resourcing of the department was absolutely appalling. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
The SPEAKER : Order! I call the member for Cottesloe to order for the first time. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : This government, in the six years since its election in 2001, has put in place legislation, resourcing, practices and people. We have ensured that we are now working towards having the very best child protection system that we can have in this state. We updated the outdated legislation. We have ensured that there is now better resourcing of children and families who are vulnerable in this community. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
The SPEAKER : Order! Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : The department has better practices, and more staff and more people working on the ground in our community. Yesterday’s announcement by the Premier is another indication of this government’s continued commitment to ensure that this state has the best possible - Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
The SPEAKER : Order! I do not know whether there is some sort of plan to have serial interjections so that when one finishes the next starts. If that is the plan, I will bring it to a quick stop and throw people out. If that is what they wish, they may continue. Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
Mr D.A. TEMPLEMAN : It is interesting that this question was asked by the Leader of the Opposition. Let us look at the issue that the opposition has been raising about keeping children with families. Let us look at what happened under the previous Liberal government. The number of children coming into care was in dramatic decline. The number of wards of the state in Western Australia declined from 4 907 in 1972 to just 711 in 1996. This dramatic decline in the number of children in care was the result of keeping children with their families or returning them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of children coming into care; this destroys the argument by those opposite that the number is decreasing under the government. The fact is that this government is resourcing the department at record levels because the government recognises that the protection of children and vulnerable families is its biggest priority. This was demonstrated by the May budget allocation of $140 million, and the provision yesterday of an additional $50 million.
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Tabled Papers
Reports and documents tabled in Parliament.
Committees
Committee profiles and recent reports.
Regulations
Subsidiary legislation with filters and summaries.
Bills
Proposed laws and parliamentary progress.
Acts
Current WA legislation and summaries.
Explanatory Memoranda
Bills with EMs (text/PDF) available.
Members
MP profiles, party breakdown and rankings.
Pollie Rankings
Data-driven rankings across 19 categories.
Amendment Chains
Track how schemes and regulations evolve over time.