Child protection 'informally' removed SA children against mothers' wishes

A recent investigation by South Australia's Ombudsman revealed that three children were removed from their mothers' custody without proper legal procedures. According to the Ombudsman's report, the Department for Child Protection made significant errors in handling these cases. These errors occurred when the department placed the children in the care of family members against their mothers' wishes.

In a statement, Ombudsman Emily Strickland stated that the department's approach to removing the children lacked formal statutory powers and disregarded clear internal policies for genuine collaboration with parents. She noted that in each case, the department failed to engage parents in the decision-making process or seek their agreement, which is typically required when removing a child from their home.

The Ombudsman's report highlighted that for two of the cases, safety plans were put in place to keep the children safe, but these plans were not agreed upon by the mothers. In one instance, the Ombudsman found that the department removed a baby from their mother and placed them with their father without using formal removal powers or the safety plan.

The Ombudsman emphasized that the department's policies expect them to engage genuinely with parents and seek their agreement before removing a child. The Department for Child Protection responded by welcoming the Ombudsman's report and acknowledged the need to update its practices, including its manual on the use of safety plans.

The department stated that the safety of children remains their top priority, and they are working with families to address concerns without resorting to formal removals whenever possible.