AMA backs community strategies to combat child abuse
Supporting calls today from governments and welfare organisations for community strategies to combat child abuse, the AMA today stressed the need for all relevant health and community services to play a greater role in preventing child abuse and neglect.
Eminent paediatrician and Chair of the AMA Child and Youth Health Committee, Dr Michael Rice, said the rising incidence of substantiated child abuse and neglect is of grave concern to all Australians.
"The current situation is a reflection of the complex unmet needs of Australian families," Dr Rice said.
"There needs to be much more emphasis on the prevention of child abuse and neglect and this means much more support for families."
While welcoming the recent announcement by the Prime Minister of funding of 12 child care neighbourhood hub centres, Dr Rice said many more are needed throughout Australia.
"We must not underestimate the role of community children's services, which provide much needed support for children and their families," Dr Rice said.
"These services are often undervalued and underfunded, but play a very important preventative role in recognising families in need.
"These services should be funded and staffed appropriately to provide a support and referral service for families to prevent abuse from occurring."
The AMA Child and Youth Health Committee is planning a summit late this year to explore ways of preventing child abuse and neglect.
CONTACT: John Flannery (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761
Dr Michael Rice (08) 8267 3911