National Summit Urgently Needed to Prevent Child Maltreatment: Experts Call for Action
Child protection experts, including the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN), have called for a National Summit to Prevent Child Maltreatment at the official launch of Child Protection Week. The CEO of NAPCAN, Leesa Waters, emphasized that keeping children safe is crucial for a healthier and fairer Australia.
Shocking statistics revealed that 60% of Australians have experienced at least one form of maltreatment during their childhood, including physical, emotional, sexual, domestic violence, or neglect. The recently released Australian Child Maltreatment Study (ACMS) underscores the urgency for action, stating that the nation cannot afford to neglect the issue of child abuse.
In response to these findings, a letter has been sent to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese requesting that the government prioritize the well-being of children and initiate the National Summit. Professor Daryl Higgins, Director of ACU’s Institute of Child Protection Studies, supports the call for urgent action, urging the implementation of effective primary prevention strategies.
The National Summit, which aims to bring together decision-makers, community leaders, industry experts, and individuals who have experienced maltreatment, represents an opportunity to discuss and address what is currently working and what needs improvement. Importantly, the voices of children, young people, and their parents will be actively involved in shaping the strategies and outcomes of the Summit.
The Summit’s outcomes will have a profound impact on a prevention strategy with shared accountability across all levels of government, including Federal, State, Territory, and Local. By uniting their efforts, participants hope to ensure that every child in every community has the chance to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.
It is widely acknowledged that experiences during childhood significantly influence brain development and future health and well-being. Therefore, collaborative efforts are necessary to create a future in which all children are loved, protected, and provided with opportunities to thrive.
As the call for the National Summit gains momentum, the importance of preventive measures to combat child maltreatment cannot be overstated. This urgent plea for action has the potential to transform the landscape of child protection in Australia, ensuring that the well-being of children remains a top priority for the nation.
