COVID-19 and Child Safety

29 April 2020
COVID-19 and Child Safety

The Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP) has published some new information to assist to better understand and manage the risks of child abuse in the online environment.

In this new environment, keeping children safe from abuse continues to be important and legal requirements under the Child Safe Standards and Reportable Conduct Scheme remain in place. During this time, the Commission continues to regulate and enforce the Child Safe Standards and Reportable Conduct Scheme and take action where it observes serious risks to the safety of children.

The Commission recognises that this time of uncertainty and restricted movement may create additional stress and anxiety, which may impact people’s wellbeing and increase instances of family violence. If you suspect that a child, or any person, is being abused or may be in immediate danger, you should call ‘000’ immediately and report the matter to Victoria Police.

Where you are concerned a child is in need of protection, you can report to Child Protection.

You can contact the Commission on 1300 78 29 78. Please note that phones will be answered between 9.30am – 11.30am and 2.00pm – 4.00pm, Monday to Friday. Please only call between these times. You can also email the Commission at contact@ccyp.vic.gov.au.

Other supports that continue to operate include:

Family violence support

  • Orange Door is operating during COVID-19 and provides free services for children and young people as well as adults, who are experiencing or have experienced family violence.
  • Domestic Violence Resource Centre Victoria provides information, advice, resources and responses to frequently asked questions on COVID-19 and family violence.
  • Call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visit the 1800 RESPECT website
  • The Safe Steps 24/7 family violence crisis response phone lines are operating as usual on 1800 015 188.

Support for children and young people

Mental health support