It is devastating to hear allegations of a victim of child sexual abuse being allegedly revictimised by a support worker they have turned to for healing and recovery.
When serious misconduct is alleged in any part of the community sector, people should not be able to move unchecked into other roles with vulnerable clients. Without consistent regulation and oversight across community services, victims and survivors are left exposed and perpetrators can exploit gaps.
We have seen similar systemic failings in the early childhood sector where inadequate safeguards allowed individuals to keep working despite serious concerns. We cannot repeat those mistakes
As the Australian Association of Social Workers has highlighted, the title of ‘social worker’ is not legally protected in Australia. This means individuals can use that title across community-based settings without being subject to the standards and oversight that registered social workers are held to.
We call on governments at all levels to act with urgency and deliver a nationally consistent approach to workforce regulation across the community sector, including robust screening and portability of misconduct findings.
Victims and survivors of child sexual abuse deserve to feel safe when they seek support. They must have confidence that strong checks and balances are in place to prevent further harm.
If you are struggling, or need support, please remember that help is available. If you are in immediate danger phone 000.
Lifeline Australia – 24/7 Crisis Support
13 11 14 or SMS 0477 13 11 14
13YARN – 24/7 Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Support
13 92 76
1800RESPECT Australia – 24/7 Domestic Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service
1800 737 732
Blue Knot Foundation Helpline and Redress Support Service – 9am-5pm / 7 days
1300 657 380
Kids Helpline – 24/7 Kids, Teens and Young Adults Support Service
1800 55 1800
QLife – An LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral service for people in Australia, 3pm – midnight / 7 days
1800 184 527
