Dozens of vulnerable children were deemed not at risk by Victoria’s child protection system. They are now dead
Victoria's child protection system is facing significant challenges, with many vulnerable children deemed not at risk despite prior reports. A recent commission report highlighted systemic issues, including ineffective referrals and inadequate data, contributing to the deaths of 35 children. Advocates are calling for urgent reforms to address funding shortfalls and improve support for at-risk families.
- ▪In 2025, 75% of reports to child protection were about children previously reported.
- ▪The state’s commissioner for children and young people raised concerns about ineffective referrals and closed reports in cases of children who died.
- ▪The auditor general found that delayed and incomplete data hampers child protection workers' ability to make informed decisions.
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In 2025, 75% of all reports received by child protection were about children who had been reported before. Photograph: Alex Linch/AlamyView image in fullscreenIn 2025, 75% of all reports received by child protection were about children who had been reported before. Photograph: Alex Linch/AlamyChild protectionDozens of vulnerable children were deemed not at risk by Victoria’s child protection system. They are now deadThe state’s commissioner for children and young people raised the alarm about cycles of ineffective referrals to voluntary services and closed reports in 35 cases of children who died after interactions with the system Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast Stephanie ConveryThu 4 Jun 2026 02.39…
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