Dozens of passionate people have been recognised as finalists in the 2023 South Australian Child Protection Awards for their work keeping children safe and supporting children and young people in care.
Close to 300 nominations were received across 12 categories in the awards, which recognise those who go above and beyond to enrich the lives of children and young people.
From dedicated kinship and foster carers, to successful young people and their advocates, 41 finalists have been announced for the awards.
The Department for Child Protection hosts the initiative, in partnership with the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN).
The awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of children and young people, carers, volunteers, staff and organisations from across the sector.
Now in their third year, the awards will be presented during National Child Protection Week (3-9 September).
Among the award finalists are foster carers Sonia and Brenton from regional South Australia. Both have a strong commitment to providing a safe, secure, loving home for children for as long as they are able. They have provided care for a significant number of children and young people, including supporting the reunification of four babies with their families.
Also recognised is Elizabeth Vale School Deputy Principal of Wellbeing and Trauma Informed Practice Dave Pascoe, who supports children in care, working with families, carers and staff to help children succeed in their learning and embed trauma informed practice in the curriculum.
Minister for Child Protection Katrine Hildyard said the awards played an important role in recognising those whose exemplary service improved children’s lives.
“There are so many dedicated and kind people working and volunteering across the child protection and family support sector and so many young people achieving great things, often in the face of adversity. This is an excellent opportunity to publicly recognise their remarkable efforts,” she said.
“Carers open up their hearts and homes to children and young people, making personal sacrifices to support children in need of a safe place to live and a sense of belonging. They also deserve our heartfelt thanks and recognition for giving so much to support vulnerable young people and help them achieve their goals.
“Each of us have a role to play in helping to ensure children grow up feeling safe, loved and nurtured; these awards shine a light on how professionals and community members are embracing that role and helping to build a stronger and safer future for children and young people.”
NAPCAN Chief Executive Officer Leesa Waters congratulated the finalists on their achievements.
“It's a privilege to support this ongoing partnership and to help shine a light on the amazing individuals and organisations in South Australia who are working to keep children safe,” she said.
“Protecting children is the responsibility of all of us right across the community, and when we work together we can prevent child abuse and neglect.”
Winners and finalists will be recognised at a lunch ceremony in the William Magarey Room at Adelaide Oval on Friday 8 September.