Child Protection
Mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse
New legislation means that as from 1 January 2009, teachers are required by law to report alleged child sexual abuse to the Mandatory Reporting Service (MRS) of the Department for Child Protection (DCP).
The Children and Community Services Act 2004 has been amended. Teachers, police, doctors, nurses and midwives are now legally required to report a belief formed on reasonable grounds of child sexual abuse to MRS. The Act stipulates the penalties that apply for failing to report sexual abuse.
It is not mandatory to report child sexual abuse that occurred before 1 January 2009. Such reports should be made through the principal to the local DCP office.
Mandatory reporting for principals
The new processes for reporting child sexual abuse and your responsibilities.
Non teaching staff responsibilities
Your responsibilities as a member of the non-teaching staff in your school.
