Hearings for the Commission of Inquiry into the Child Safety System in Queensland will start on Wednesday, 23 July.
Commissioner Paul Anastassiou will formally open the commission next week and provide the public with an overview of how the commission will approach the task it has been given by its terms of reference, and the areas of focus.
Mr Anastassiou has confirmed that improving the complaints system for people working and caring within the child safety system will be one of the commission’s first priorities.
Returning from a visit to Townsville to begin regional engagement, the Commissioner said: “Over two days, I had many engaging and fruitful discussions with frontline workers in the child protection system. I am appreciative of their time and thoughtful feedback. These individuals are a vital source of information
which will help inform the Commission’s work.
“I have also had the opportunity to commence direct engagement with First Nations elders, which will be an ongoing process throughout the Commission.”
The public is invited to watch the opening hearing online via livestream on the commission website. No evidence from witnesses will be heard at the initial hearing. Evidence will be called from witnesses at subsequent public hearings, the dates of which are yet to be confirmed.
Submissions are currently open and can be made via the commission website.
The opening hearing will start at 10am in the Brisbane Magistrates Court, Courtroom 17.
Further information is available at childsafetyinquiry.qld.gov.au.
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