Child safety worker union alarmed by possible removal of key reporting tool

The Queensland child safety workers union, Together Union, has raised concerns over the state department's proposal to remove a crucial reporting tool that tracks how many youths each worker is responsible for. This tool, known as the workload management tool, is a key means for workers and the public to assess the pressure levels within the child safety system.

The union's assistant secretary, Dee Spink, stated that the proposal to remove the tool contradicts Premier David Crisafulli's own department, who supposedly supports its retention. Premier Crisafulli's stance appears to be at odds with the department's proposal, as he expressed his preference for the tool to remain as it is for benchmarking purposes.

The Together Union, which represents child safety officers, has indicated that all options, including a potential walkout, are on the table during the ongoing bargaining process. Opposition leader Steven Miles criticized the government for allegedly trying to conceal data from Queenslanders and condemned Minister Amanda Camm for her absence from the bargaining sessions.

The union has also expressed concerns about the high number of vacancies for child safety officers, with over 100 positions unfilled across the state, and the lack of any proposals to address these issues in the bargaining offer.