Mandatory Reporting
Some professionals such as doctors, nurses, police and school teachers are legally obligated to report suspected child abuse.
What is Mandatory Reporting?
‘Mandatory Reporting’ is the term used to describe the legislative requirement imposed on selected classes of people (teachers, doctors, police etc) to report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect to government authorities. The Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (Vic) dictates how mandatory reporting operates in Victoria.
Who are mandatory reporters?
- Registered medical practitioners;
- Registered nurses;
- Registered teachers;
- The head teacher or a principal of a State school;
- Police officers;
- People in religious ministry;
- Qualified child care workers;
- Qualified youth, social and welfare workers;
- Youth and child welfare workers;
- Registered psychologists;
- Youth justice officers; and
- Youth parole officers.
When does a mandatory report need to be made?
In the course of practising their profession, a mandatory reporter forms a belief on reasonable grounds that a child is in need of protection, they must report that belief as soon as practicable.
How do I make a report?
Take a look at this step by step guide to making a mandatory report.
Where can I find more information?
More information on mandatory reporting can be found here.
