Child protection and disability

In Queensland, there are around 10,000 children in out of home care. Unlike most other States, the most common care concern when a child is removed in Queensland is neglect. Many of the children who are removed from their parents’ care for reasons of ‘neglect’ have disabilities. Anecdotal evidence suggests that parents in these situations may be very willing to care for their children, but are unable to meet their special care needs. This is particularly the case in relation to older children and young people who have intellectual or behavioural impairments, autism, or high physical care needs. A/Prof Tamara Walsh's research will investigate whether current child protection interventions with children with disabilities is in the best interests of children, and whether the process of removal violates the right to family life.