Progressing the establishment of the new Commission for Children and Young People

A Bill which progresses the Commission of Inquiry’s recommendation to establish a Commission for Children and Young People (the Commission) was tabled in the House of Assembly today.

It will create a new Commission with three Commissioners and build on the functions of the existing Commissioner for Children and Young People. The Independent Regulator of the Child and Youth Safe Organisations Framework will also be part of the Commission.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Guy Barnett, said the Commission will strengthen Tasmania’s oversight system and be a strong advocate for children and young people.

“Protecting our children and young people remains one of the most solemn goals of this Government,” the Attorney-General said.

“A draft version of the Bill went through extensive stakeholder and community consultation in late 2024 and the version tabled today has been significantly amended to address the feedback received.

“I would like to thank all those who provided feedback on the draft Bill for their detailed and constructive input into this important process.

“The Bill will commence in stages, reflecting the timing of the Commission of Inquiry recommendations and supporting an effective transition.

“We are committed to working together with Tasmanians to move our state forward.”

The Commission’s general functions will include:

• recommending system improvements to Government;
• conducting inquiries into systemic issues;
• promoting the safety and wellbeing, rights, and participation of children and young people;
• monitoring and reviewing their wellbeing, care and treatment in out-of-home care or the youth justice system; and
• including data and information about serious incidents.

The Commissioner for Children and Young People will be the head of this new agency.

The Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People will have functions centred on advocating for the rights and welfare of Aboriginal children and young people.

The Child Advocate will focus on advocating for individual children and young people and will also be responsible for developing an independent community visitor scheme to support children and young people in out-of-home care and in the youth justice system.