Hon Stephen Dawson asks the Minister for Child Protection about a 20-month-old baby girl admitted to hospital with horrific injuries, inquiring about prior complaints, investigations, other children in the household, contact with the family, and actions taken to ensure the children's safety. The Minister confirms prior complaints, investigation, and subsequent placement of the children in provisional protection and care.

AnsweredQoN 549Legislative Council
Asked
14 May 2014
Portfolio
Child Protection

QuestionView source ↗

DEPARTMENT
FOR CHILD PROTECTION AND FAMILY SUPPORT — INJURED BABY
549. Hon STEPHEN DAWSON to the
Minister for Child Protection:
I refer to the reported case of a 20-month-old baby girl
suffering horrific injuries who was admitted to Swan District Hospital on
Thursday, 1 May.
(1) Had the
Department for Child Protection and Family Support received any complaints
about the wellbeing of the child prior to this date; and, if so, when?
(2) Did the department investigate
the complaints; and, if so, to what outcome?
(3) Were any other children in the
household known to the department; and, if so, how many?
(4) What contact has the department
had with the family since 1 May?
(5) What action
has the department taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the baby and any
other children in the household?

AnswerView source ↗

I thank the member for some notice
of the question.
(1)–(2) Yes.
In November 2013, concerns were raised with the department in relation to a
lack of supervision and poor hygiene. The department investigated these
concerns and assessed that the children were safe.
(3) The baby and
her older sibling are known to the department. No other children reside in the
household.
(4) Since 1 May
2014, the department has had frequent contact with the maternal and paternal
families. Contact has been in person and by telephone.
(5) Both children have been placed
in provisional protection and care.

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