12 Critical Things To Learn About Mandatory Reporting

What Happens When A Mandatory Report Is Made To Child Protection or Police?

After making a mandatory report, the matter will typically be referred to child protection authorities who have the power to investigate and intervene in cases of abuse or neglect. The Child Protection agency will assess the report, conduct necessary investigations, and take appropriate actions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the children or young persons involved.

In most states, there are also avenues for professionals to refer affected individuals or families to supportive groups or agencies that can help them overcome the issues without having police or child protection services involved. This may be beneficial in cases that do not warrant a full investigation.

What Are The Five Recognised Types Of Abuse And Neglect?

The definition of abuse and neglect differs across states in Australia, however is generally classified as one of the following categories:

1. Sexual Abuse: Involves any non-consensual sexual activity, exploitation, or assault, including grooming or conduct of a sexual nature.
2. Physical Abuse: Encompasses intentional or reckless harm causing physical injury or pain.
3. Emotional Abuse: Involves emotional or psychological harm, which may have a long-term effect on the development and wellbeing of a child or young person.
4. Neglect: Pertains to the failure to provide essential care and support.
5. Family Violence: Encompasses exposure to family violence or harm from a family member.

Are Mandatory Reporting Requirements The Same In All States Of Australia?

No, but there are many similarities from state to state. Mandatory reporting is legislated in every state and territory in Australia, but the obligation on who is required to report differs from state to state. Generally speaking, specific occupations of mandatory reporters are listed, which include the majority of roles that work with children and young people.

The Northern Territory is an exception to this rule, requiring everyone over 18 to mandatorily report, even if they do not work in a particular field. Each state also has varied legislation regarding what is considered mandatory to report.

At the time of writing this, the following information is relative and correct to each state regarding what is considered a legal requirement to report as mandatory reporters.

• Australian Capital Territory – Physical and sexual abuse only
• New South Wales – All five types of abuse and neglect for mandated employment roles
• Northern Territory – All five types of abuse and neglect by all persons over the age of 18, regardless of occupation or employment status
• Queensland – Varied legislation exists, which may require reporting of physical and sexual abuse or sexual abuse only
• South Australia – All five types of abuse and neglect, except family violence, for mandated employment roles
• Tasmania – All five types of abuse and neglect for required employment roles
• Victoria – Physical and sexual abuse only
• Western Australia – As per Queensland, varied legislation exists, which may require reporting of physical and sexual abuse or sexual abuse only

Reasonable Suspicion vs Reasonable Belief

Distinguishing between reasonable suspicion and reasonable belief is vital in most legal contexts but is often used interchangeably regarding mandatory reporting in Australia. Reasonable suspicion implies a rational concern based on observed facts, while reasonable belief involves a justified conviction grounded in evidence.

As a general guide, a reasonable suspicion holds less weight than a reasonable belief, but it’s essential to understand the nuances of your state guidelines and to report any incident in which it is reasonable to suspect that abuse or neglect is occurring.

Abuse That Has Occurred Is Occurring or Is Suspected As Likely To Occur In The Future

Any instance of child abuse or harm that has transpired or is presently occurring demands prompt reporting by Mandatory Reporting Requirements. This includes situations where there is a reasonable suspicion or belief that significant harm or abuse is likely to affect a child or vulnerable individual in the future. The obligation to report is a crucial measure taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those at risk. It underscores the ethical responsibility to intervene and protect against potential harm.

What Happens If I Don’t Report Suspected Cases Of Abuse?

As a mandated individual: Failure to report suspected cases of abuse may result in legal consequences, penalties, or loss of employment. Depending on jurisdiction, penalties may include fines, imprisonment, or professional disciplinary action. Non-compliance may also lead to civil liabilities.

As a mandated organisation: Not reporting suspected abuse can lead to severe repercussions. This may involve legal consequences, loss of funding, damage to reputation, and potential civil liability. Ensuring your staff uphold mandatory reporting obligations ensures vulnerable individuals’ safety and protection and fulfils legal and ethical responsibilities.

Is My Privacy Protected When Making A Mandatory Report?

In Australia, when making a mandatory report, the privacy of the person reporting is generally protected if a report is made in good faith. The laws prioritise the safety and wellbeing of the child or young person over the reporter’s privacy if there is a significant reason to do so.

Reports are treated confidentially, and the identity of the person making the report is usually kept confidential unless required by law or deemed necessary for the safety of the child or others. It’s essential to familiarise yourself with the specific laws in your jurisdiction to understand the extent of privacy protection afforded during the mandatory reporting process.

In some circumstances, reporters may be identified, including when:

• The person who makes the report permits their details to be shared
• The person making the report informs the family or affected individual that they have made a report
• If the court deems the identity of the reporter necessary for justice to occur
• If sharing the reporter’s identity further protects children and young people from harm, or will prevent harm, or further harm, being caused to a vulnerable person such as a child, young person or other affected individual.

What Happens After I Make A Report?

After making a mandatory report of suspected abuse or neglect, the process typically involves the relevant authorities taking steps to assess and address the situation. The specific actions can vary based on the nature of the report, local laws, and the policies of child protection agencies. Common steps include:

1. Assessment: Child protection agencies will evaluate the information provided in the report to determine the level of risk and the appropriate response.
2. Investigation: If necessary, an investigation may be conducted to gather more information about the alleged abuse or neglect.
3. Intervention: Depending on the severity of the situation, interventions may include providing support services, removing the child or vulnerable individual from a harmful environment, or taking legal action against the alleged perpetrator.
4. Communication: Authorities may communicate with the person who made the report to gather additional details or provide updates on the case.
5. Follow-Up: Ongoing monitoring and follow-up actions may occur to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected individual.

It’s important to note that the specifics of the process can vary, and confidentiality laws may limit the information that can be shared with the person making the report. Reporting agencies aim to handle cases with sensitivity while prioritising the safety and protection of the individuals involved.

What If I Am Not Required To Make A Report But I Am Aware Of An Issue That Requires Reporting?

There are many community and employment situations in which you may become aware that a child or vulnerable person is likely to suffer harm or are experiencing abuse and neglect when it is not a legal requirement to report. If you form a reasonable belief that a child is at risk of harm, you may still report this belief even if you are not required to do so. Child safety is everyone’s responsibility.

If you work within or with an organisation required to report (for instance, if you are working as a volunteer at a school or aged care facility), speak to the person who supervises you or takes care of the department you are working with. This may be a teacher or an aged care facility manager. Explain the circumstances and that you believe on reasonable grounds that a child or young person is at risk of harm or currently experiencing harm and that you would like it to be reported.

If this is not possible, or you do not feel comfortable doing so, it’s essential to speak to relevant services who can protect the child you have concerns about. If you’re not legally required to report but become aware of a situation requiring intervention, such as potential harm or abuse towards a child or vulnerable person, various community and employment scenarios may expose you to these concerns. This includes roles in support services, administration, and volunteering.

Mandatory reporting in the disability and aged care sectors

In addition, organisations providing services in the disability and aged care sectors are required to report certain types of incidents to the respective regulators including the National Disability Insurance Scheme Quality and Safeguards Commission and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

What do I need to know if I am a Mandatory Reporter?

If immediate harm is apparent, call 000 . Inform your supervisors or relevant departments about your concerns for appropriate action in organisational settings where it is appropriate to do so and in line with your organisation’s policies. Ultimately the obligation to mandatorily report rests on your as an individual and you should ensure that you are aware of your obligations of when and how to report. If you are unsure what to do, please get in touch with relevant authorities to ensurse that you comply with your obligations.

Our team is always here to help. Please contact us during business hours if your organisation has any concerns you need assistance with.