Thursday, 17 October 2024

Ministers statements: child protection

Lizzie BLANDTHORN (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Children, Minister for Disability) (12:05): I rise to update the house on the important work of our residential care sector, and in particular the care and commitment of the 2000 residential care workers across our state who are caring for young people. Those opposite like to call into question the work of residential care workers, but the Allan Labor government recognises and values the role of residential care workers. Every day they are there for our young people, caring for them, listening to them and supporting them in both the good and the tough times. Last week I attended Resi ROCKS, an annual event to gather and celebrate around our residential care workers. This year for the first time the famous annual hoodie was designed by a young woman in residential care, and her design was worn proudly by the 500 Resi ROCKS attendees and by me. I was thrilled to present awards alongside Deb Tsorbaris from the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare. The outstanding nominations and winners across all award categories evidenced for me the capability and dedication of our residential care workers.

The winners of the Residential Care Team Award were a team delivering the KEYS therapeutic program from MacKillop Family Services. Operating with the principle of ‘Nothing about me without me’, the team prioritises active participation from young people in all aspects of their care, from planning to execution. The team is unwavering in its dedication to creating a safe, supportive and nurturing living environment for every young person in their care. For instance, in supporting a 15-year-old young person with a history of criminal offending, the team made it a priority to listen to their hopes and to their fears. By actively incorporating the young person’s desire to reconnect with family and engage in meaningful activities, the team empowered them to take control of their own path to recovery. This approach led to a marked reduction in missing episodes and a renewed connection with family, demonstrating the profound impact of feeling heard and being respected. I want to congratulate the team for their incredible support of young people in their care. Residential care workers play a critically important role in our community, and they deserve our support. I thank them for everything they do and for the care and the commitment they demonstrate in support of the young people they look after.