Inquiry launched into Queensland’s child protection system amid rising demand and costs
A sweeping public inquiry has been launched into Queensland’s child protection system, as authorities examine rising numbers of children in care, increasing government spending, and concerns about whether vulnerable young people are receiving adequate support.
The Child Safety Commission of Inquiry formally commenced on 1 July 2025, with Commissioner Paul Anastassiou KC tasked with reviewing the effectiveness, structure and accountability of the system. The inquiry will investigate how government agencies fulfil their responsibility to protect children who cannot safely remain with their families and whether reforms are needed to improve outcomes.
Opening the inquiry, Commissioner Anastassiou said the state acts as a “notional parent” for children in care and must ensure their safety and wellbeing. He said the Commission would examine whether current care arrangements, policies and oversight mechanisms meet that obligation and deliver appropriate support.
The inquiry comes amid significant growth in demand for child protection services in Queensland. The number of children in out-of-home care increased from 7,999 in 2011–12 to 10,092 in 2023–24. Over the same period, the number of children placed in residential care nearly tripled, rising from 653 to 1,994. Government spending has also surged, climbing from about $735 million to more than $2.14 billion.
The Commission will examine the reasons behind this growth and assess whether the system is equipped to respond effectively. Particular attention will be given to residential care models, departmental decision-making, and the availability of foster and kinship carers.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children remain significantly overrepresented in the child protection system, with their numbers in out-of-home care increasing from 3,041 to 4,961 over the same period. The inquiry will work with First Nations communities to identify culturally appropriate solutions and improve outcomes.
The inquiry will also investigate links between child protection and youth justice systems, noting that many young people under youth justice supervision have previously had contact with child safety services. The Commission will consider whether earlier interventions or different care arrangements could prevent children from entering the justice system.
Public hearings will be held across the state, including in regional centres such as Cairns and Townsville, where demand for services is high. The Commission will hear evidence from government agencies, carers, advocacy organisations, and young people with direct experience in the system.
The Queensland Government has directed the inquiry to deliver its final report by 30 November 2026. The findings are expected to shape future reforms aimed at strengthening child protection services and ensuring better care and support for vulnerable children.
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