Queensland Police are joining communities across the state to mark the 40th anniversary of Queensland Child Protection Week and recognise decades of work protecting children from harm.
The Queensland Police Service’s specialist child protection history dates back to 1963, when Juvenile Aid Bureaus were established across the state. The work later evolved into specialist Child Protection Investigation Units, which were established in their current form in 2006.
Taskforce Argos was also established in 1997 to investigate serious child exploitation offences.
Today, Queensland investigators work with law enforcement agencies across Australia and internationally to combat child exploitation, including increasingly complex online offending.
QPS Deputy Commissioner Cheryl Scanlon said the anniversary recognised generations of police, staff, volunteers and partner organisations who had worked to protect vulnerable children.
She said new threats, including online exploitation and the use of artificial intelligence, meant policing responses continued to evolve.
Detective Superintendent Denzil Clark said protecting children was a responsibility shared across the community.
Parents, grandparents, educators, coaches and other community members are encouraged to learn the signs of abuse, listen to children, have age-appropriate safety conversations and report concerns.
Queensland’s Reportable Conduct Scheme, which commenced on July 1, also provides additional safeguards by requiring relevant organisations to respond to allegations involving workers and volunteers.
Members of the public can visit www.danielslaw.qld.gov.au to access a range of child safeguarding resources, search whether a reportable offender may be living in their community through the Locality Search, and, where eligible, apply for a Parent and Guardian Disclosure to help them make informed decisions about their child’s safety.
Image source and original story from: mypolice.qld.gov.au