ACWA has joined with AbSec, CREATE Foundation, NCOSS, FAMS, the Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT) and the Justice and Equity Centre in calling for the establishment of an independent Child Safety and Wellbeing Commission in NSW.

The joint call follows ongoing concerns raised through multiple reviews, inquiries and sector consultations about accountability, transparency and oversight across the child protection and out-of-home care system.

The proposed Commission would provide independent monitoring, complaints handling, system oversight and public reporting, while helping strengthen outcomes for children, young people and families interacting with the system.

ACWA supports the intent to strengthen independent oversight and believes any new model must be designed carefully, with clear roles, alignment across existing oversight bodies, sustainable funding and a strong focus on improving outcomes for children and families.

Read the full joint media release here.