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How DCP Responds to Reports of Child Abuse

When contacted with information about a child or young person, the Department will:

  • receive and assess reports
  • take further actions,where necessary, to safeguard and promote the child's safety and wellbeing
  • investigate matters to determine if the child is in need of protection 
  • work with children, young people and their families to build their safety and wellbeing
  • seek orders, as a last resort, through the WA Children’s Court for the protection and care of children and young people in need of protection and where necessary, make arrangements for a child or young person’s safe care in or out of home.

Actions taken by the Department are guided by the principle that the best interests of the child or young person is the paramount consideration in all matters. The Children and Community Services Act 2004 provides a list of matters that must be taken into account when determining the best interests of the child.

Protection Order Application

If the Department believes that a child is in need of protection because his/her parents have not protected or are unlikely or unable to protect the child from harm or further harm, then the Department may apply for a Protection Order through the Children's Court. Harm arising from the abuse or neglect means any detrimental effect of a significant nature on the child's wellbeing, which includes but is not limited to the care, development, health and safety of the child.

Applying for a Protection Order is a legal process and persons involved are strongly encouraged to seek legal advice. 

Wherever possible, the Department works with the child’s family to make the child safe and address the reasons contributing to the abuse or neglect.

Arranging for the protection and care of children and young people can be extremely stressful events for families. Similarly, children need to understand what is happening to them and need reassurance that they will be safe and are not being abandoned or punished.

What if I am unhappy with the decision

You may believe that the Department has made the wrong decision, or you may not be satisfied with the way the Department is working with you and your child. There are a number of steps you can take to address your concerns.

In the first instance, you should talk to your case worker or the supervisor (team leader). If the issues are not resolved, you can speak to the district manager.

The Complaints Management Unit is able to listen to your complaint, and provide information and support to make a complaint. The Unit cannot respond to matters that are before the Children's Court of Western Australia.

The Department's Advocate for Children and Young People in Care focuses on the interests of children and young people in care. This role provides advocacy, as well as complaints management and strategic advice. Contact the Advocate on 9222 2518.