The Association of Children’s Welfare Agencies (ACWA) has welcomed the return of Pru Goward to her former portfolio of Family and Community Services under NSW Premier Glady’s Berejiklian’s new-look Cabinet.
CEO Andrew McCallum said ACWA looks forward to working closely again with Minister Goward, who was previously responsible for the Family and Community Services portfolio from 2011 and 2014, to pursue better child protection outcomes for vulnerable children and families and for the NSW community at large.
“Ms Goward proved herself a determined and passionate driver of change during her previous three-year tenure in this crucial child protection portfolio, having initiated the transfer of out-of-home care services to the non-government sector and overseeing the passage of important legislative reforms placing children’s needs for stability and permanency at the heart of decision-making,” Mr McCallum said.
“She is a strong supporter of the integral role that the non-government sector plays in child protection and ACWA is confident her commitment, skills and leadership will ensure that collective momentum for meaningful reform in this challenging area of policy continues.”
Mr McCallum also extended his thanks to outgoing Family and Community Services Minister Brad Hazzard, who has served in the role since April 2015, for his leadership and advocacy.
“ACWA thanks Mr Hazzard for his tireless efforts and we wish him all the best in his new appointment as Health Minister,” Mr McCallum said.
The Association of Children’s Welfare Agencies is the NSW peak body representing non-government organisations which provide services to vulnerable children, young people and their families.
Media contact: Andrew McCallum 0409 221 414 andrew@acwa.asn.au
Media enquiries: Libby McCalman 0418 659 525 libby@acwa.asn.au