Australian and New Zealand Child Death Review and Prevention Group

Grace Sholl
Suicidologist and lived experience advocate

This presentation, Beyond Band-Aid Solutions: Multifactorial Approaches to Understanding and Addressing Youth Suicidality, explores the complex factors contributing to youth suicide and emphasises the need for comprehensive, evidence-based interventions. Instead of surface-level solutions, it advocates for a deeper, multidimensional approach, integrating social, psychological, and systemic perspectives.

Key themes include identifying risk and protective factors, addressing structural barriers to support, and implementing policies that foster resilience. By combining clinical insights, community engagement, and policy-driven strategies, the presentation aims to promote sustainable and effective responses to reduce youth suicidality.

Professor Silke Meyer
Leneen Forde Chair in Child & Family Research Griffith University

Maria Atienzar-Prieto
School of Health Sciences and Social Work , Griffith University

This presentation explores a study examining the childhood experiences of domestic and family violence (DFV) among young people who died by suicide. It investigates the impact of early exposure to DFV on mental health, coping mechanisms, and long-term well-being.

By analysing case data and patterns, the study aims to identify key risk factors and opportunities for intervention. It highlights the need for trauma-informed approaches, early support systems, and policy responses to mitigate the effects of DFV and reduce suicide risk among vulnerable youth.

Dr Holly Blackmore
Research Manager, Death Review
Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety

Anna Butler
Co-Chair of the Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety
Manager, Domestic Violence Review Team

This presentation examines cases of filicide within the context of domestic and family violence (DFV) between 2010 and 2018. It explores the underlying patterns, risk factors, and systemic challenges associated with these tragic incidents. By analysing case data, the presentation aims to highlight the complex interplay between DFV, parental distress, and societal responses. Key themes include identifying warning signs, improving intervention strategies, and strengthening protective measures for children at risk.

The discussion emphasises the need for comprehensive, multi-agency approaches to prevent filicide and support vulnerable families.

Judith Lovegrove
Community Member - Oversight and Advocacy Authority for Aboriginal Infants, Children and Young People

The South Australian Aboriginal Authority is a group of leaders and thinkers from the Aboriginal community who review the deaths of Aboriginal children in South Australia. The Authority is developing a model for Aboriginal child death review and has significant experience with the benefits and challenges.

Commissioner Anne Hollonds
National Children’s Commissioner
Australian Human Rights Commission

Report: Improving the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable children – a consolidation of systemic recommendations and evidence. The report is the result of a collaboration between the Australian Institute of Family Studies and Anne Hollonds, National Children’s Commissioner (Australian Human Rights Commission).

Dr Julie McEniery
Queensland Paediatric Quality Council

This presentation outlines key findings from the review of Queensland Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI) cases between 2013 and 2016. It examines patterns, contributing factors, and opportunities for prevention, drawing insights from case data to identify risks associated with infant sleep environments, health conditions, and social circumstances.

The discussion highlights strategies for reducing SUDI occurrences, including safe sleep practices, targeted public health messaging, and improved support for vulnerable families. By analysing trends over this period, the presentation aims to inform policy and prevention efforts to enhance infant safety and well-being.

Professor Julie Brown
Co-Director, Transurban Road Safety Centre at NeuRA
Injury Prevention Research Centre
The George Institute

This presentation examines restraint practices among fatally injured child passengers compared to the general child passenger population. It explores how factors such as proper seatbelt use, child restraint systems, and compliance with safety guidelines influence injury outcomes in vehicle accidents.

By analysing case data and broader trends, the discussion highlights gaps in safety practices, opportunities for improved public awareness, and potential policy enhancements to better protect children in transit.

The presentation underscores the importance of education, enforcement, and advancements in restraint technology to reduce fatalities and improve overall child passenger safety.

Stacey Pidgeon
Royal Life Saving Society Australia

This presentation explores how coronial data has been used to shape the Australian Water Safety Strategy 2030, providing insights into drowning incidents and informing evidence-based prevention measures. It reflects on key lessons learned from examining fatal water-related cases, identifying trends, risk factors, and gaps in existing safety initiatives. The discussion highlights the role of data-driven approaches in strengthening policies, improving public awareness, and enhancing intervention strategies. By leveraging coronial findings, the presentation aims to support ongoing efforts to reduce drowning rates and promote safer water practices across Australia.