Queensland is a human rights jurisdiction and the Queensland Human Rights Act 2019 affirms that families are the foundational unit of society, deserving of protection and support from both society and the state. In alignment with this principle, every child is entitled, without discrimination, to the protection necessary to ensure their wellbeing and best interests, recognising their inherent rights as children.
The Child Protection Act 1999 ensures that children in care are entitled to protection, care and support that upholds their safety, wellbeing and best interests. Children in care have the right to maintain meaningful relationships with family and community, where safe and appropriate, and to be supported in their cultural and personal identity. The Act declares that every child in care must have their voice heard in decisions affecting them, ensuring their rights and needs are at the centre of all child protection practices. Parents are also supported to participate in decisions about the most appropriate interventions and their involvement in the child’s life and care.
The Commission is committed to leading a family and child rights agenda in Queensland and to assist others to integrate a rights approach. This approach recognises that all rights are underpinned by the following four key principles:
- devotion to the best interests of the child
- the right to life, survival and development
- respect for the views of the child
- non-discrimination.
We will continue to keep the rights of families and children at the centre of our approach, and we will work with organisations to do the same. To achieve this, we will support the development of a comprehensive framework for Queensland legislation, policy and programs to promote and protect the rights of children and young people