Outline of the report
The Child Welfare report reviews the child welfare laws and practices in the Australian Capital Territory.
The ALRC observed that the Children's Court and police service lacked a clear policy and practical guidelines on how to manage cases involving young offenders.
In addition, the welfare system was found to be inadequately equipped to deal with neglected, abused and uncontrollable children. The law in this area was unclear and the welfare agencies lacked coordination.