While the world is experiencing complex and challenging times, today we can celebrate some good news and applaud Queenslanders who make the world a better place for vulnerable and at-risk children.

Our State’s champions of child protection was recognised in an awards ceremony at Parliament House, launching Queensland Child Protection Week (QCPW) 2021 celebrations.

Chairperson Sara Evans said people are facing greater challenges and adversity than ever before, and it is an incredible opportunity to honour the recipients of the 11 award categories for the hope, joy, commitment and kindness that they bring to Queensland children.

“’Child protection is everybody’s business’ has never been a more important message to share when COVID-19 has forced children and young people to remain in environments of abuse, neglect and harm,” said Ms Evans.

“A child is abused every 15 minutes in Australia.

“What’s worse is more than a quarter of those children and young people who disclose the abuse think they won’t be believed.

“It’s saddening and maddening for those of us who live and breathe this every day. That’s why Queensland Child Protection Week is so important to thank and congratulate those who make a difference in children’s lives.”

QCPW kicks off this Sunday, 5 September (Father’s Day) and runs until next Saturday, 11 September. The week will be celebrated with a variety of COVID-safe activities being held across the State.

Minister for Children and Youth Justice and Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Leanne Linard said while COVID-19 continued to create some challenges this year, there are still plenty of opportunities for everyone to get involved with over 100 events and activities across the state.

“Keeping children safe is everyone’s business and this week provides a wonderful opportunity to focus on community efforts to support Queensland children to thrive and families to be the best they can be,” she said.

“There will be plenty of helpful information, events and activities held right across Queensland to make sure everyone has the tools they need to make child protection their business.”

Award Winners

Professional (Non-Government) AwardMel James (Social Care Solutions)

Professional (Government) AwardDebbie Jones (Manager, Policy and Programs Unit, Child Abuse and Sexual Crime Group – Queensland Police Service)

Media & Communications AwardRob Ryan (Executive Lead, Child, Youth and Family Engagement, Life Without Barriers)

Volunteer AwardAunty Coral Dessaix, Debbie Miscamble, and Uncle Peter Eather (Warril Yari-Go Karulbo – Walking Together for Logan)

Regional Program AwardJae and Luka  (CADA – Centre Against Domestic Abuse, Moreton Region)

Transition 2 Success Initiative AwardThe Bunya Peoples Aboriginal Corporation (Burnett Mary Regional Group)

Child Safe Organisation AwardCharlene Reynolds (Safeguarding Manager, YMCA of Brisbane)

Addressing overrepresentation of ATSI families, children, and young people in the child protection system AwardFaylene Hill (Department of Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs)

Education Initiative AwardMel Jenkins (Head of Curriculum, Goondiwindi State School)

Youth Participation AwardSandy Murdoch (Founder & CEO of TRACTION)

Thriving Communities Initiative AwardBritt Sherwell (Program Coordinator, Family and Child Connect Sunshine Coast and Gympie, Act for Kids)

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