Department reports sharp rise in deaths of children in state care

According to a recent government report, a significant increase has been observed in the number of children who have died while under the care of the state's child protection system. In the most recent reporting period, over 25 children passed away, marking a sharp rise from the nine deaths reported in the previous period. The head of the Department for Child Protection attributes this surge to a growing number of notifications regarding children with complex disabilities.

The report, presented to state parliament, reveals that three children in direct care and 23 others who had contact with the child protection system in the past year perished between July 2025 and June 2026. While coroner investigations are ongoing for 13 of these deaths, 9 were linked to medical or congenital issues. Department for Child Protection Chief Executive Jackie Bray highlighted an increase in child protection notifications concerning children with complex disabilities, emphasizing that many of these children can safely remain with their families.

Bray stated that the loss of any child is a profound tragedy, and every child's life, along with their families, friends, and communities, is deeply valued. She underscored that addressing the needs of children with complex medical conditions or life-limiting illnesses demands compassionate care and a commitment to providing the highest quality support possible.

Bray also noted that new child protection laws, set to take effect next year, will place a strong emphasis on collaboration.