Queensland government admits vulnerable children slept on floor of public service offices
Summary
The Queensland government admitted that vulnerable children sometimes slept on floors in public service offices when no other safe places were available. The government says this happens only in emergencies and early mornings, but unions and advocates say the child protection system is overwhelmed and these conditions are harmful to children.Key Facts
- Children in Queensland’s child protection system have slept on mattresses in government offices due to lack of other places.
- Premier David Crisafulli said this occurs occasionally when no safe options exist, often early in the morning.
- The practice has been used since 2019 as a last resort when placement options like hotels are unavailable.
- Unions report children have slept overnight at specific child safety centers recently, saying the system is under too much pressure.
- Queensland has the highest number of children in out-of-home care in Australia, about 12,500.
- Recent government changes banned children under five from staying in hotels and tightened rules on residential care providers.
- Advocacy groups say putting vulnerable children in office spaces is harmful and increases their trauma.
- The child safety minister denied the practice has happened since the government inquiry ended.
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