Some people like police, school teachers, nurses and doctors are ‘mandatory reporters.’ This means if they think children are at risk of harm, the law says they must tell the Department. The laws that say who must report children at risk to the Department are different in each State and Territory.
Other people like friends, family or neighbours may contact the Department if they are worried about your children’s safety.
Mostly, you won’t know that someone has made a report about your family unless the Department investigates that report. The identity of who made the report is generally kept confidential.
When the Department gets a report, they may investigate to find out if there are any risks to your children’s safety, and how they can help to keep them safe. They don’t investigate every report.
If the Department gets involved with your family, it’s important to get get legal advice.
For more information, see resources.
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