The Child Protection Systems Royal Commission conducted a comprehensive investigation into the laws, policies, practices and structures in place for children at risk of harm, including those who were under guardianship of the minister.
The report, 'The Life They Deserve' was delivered to the Governor of South Australia on 5 August 2016 and described a system in urgent need of reform.
'The Life They Deserve' (PDF, 15.6 MB)
In the report, Commissioner Nyland made 260 recommendations to improve the child protection system.
In November 2016, the South Australian Government released 'A fresh start': Government of South Australia’s response to the Child Protection Systems Royal Commission Report’.
The Child Protection Systems Royal Commission led to wide ranging reforms across South Australia which were foundational to today’s child protection and family support system. The Department for Child Protection will continue to work closely with government and non-government agencies to strengthen the child protection and family support system for the future.
Annual reporting
Since 2017, the state government has reported annually on its progress implementing the Royal Commission’s recommendations.
The South Australian Government 2023-2024 Annual Report (PDF, 1.1 MB)
See below for the latest status reported for all Royal Commission recommendations.
Contact
Child Protection Reform Team
Email: CPReform@sa.gov.au