Legislative changes to the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005 (Vic) and what this means for employees who work with children and young people.

The Reportable Conduct Scheme outlines the obligations of organisations covered by the Scheme to notify the Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP) of reportable allegations made against workers of an organisation.. Its purpose is to help identify individuals who pose a risk of harm to children and young people, promote information sharing between government regulators and organisations, and improve responses to allegations of child abuse and harm within organisations. 

On July 1 2024 amendments to the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005 (Vic) (‘The Act’) came into force which expands the definition of ‘employee’ and  ‘worker’ under the Reportable Conduct Scheme (‘Scheme’) and increases the enforcement and compliance powers of the CCYP and police. 

Expanding these definitions ensures that allegations of child-related harm and misconduct in organisations is properly reported and investigated, regardless of the  employment relationship with the organisation. 

Will these changes ensure all allegations of abuse or harm are reported, irrespective of the person's position within the organisation? And will the increased powers of the CCYP and the police capture those offenders who have previously fallen in the gaps? 

Show Notes:

Safe Space Legal 

https://safespacelegal.com.au/new-legislative-changes-child-wellbeing-safety-act/

https://safespacelegal.com.au/child-safe-standards-reportable-conduct-victoria/

https://safespacelegal.com.au/child-safe-standards/

https://safespacelegal.com.au/child-safe-standards-law-amendments/

https://www.childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au/final-report

https://www.justice.vic.gov.au/safer-communities/protecting-children-and-families/betrayal-of-trust-fact-sheet-the-new

Research for this episode was compiled by Claudia Brophy-Odgers. 

Best Interests Children’s Law Podcast is sponsored by Ex Curia: Coaching & Consulting Pty Ltd, Meliora Psychology and Claudia Grimberg Lawyers.

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