Queensland’s residential care system faces scrutiny as Churches of Christ exits youth services, peak body warns

Queensland’s residential care system for children is under scrutiny as the Churches of Christ, a key provider, announces it will cease its services. The decision has raised concerns among advocates about the impact on vulnerable youth, who are already facing significant challenges. The Youth Advocacy Centre’s chief executive, Katherine Hayes, has called for an independent inquiry, emphasizing that the state is failing to meet its basic responsibilities to children in care.

The withdrawal of the Churches of Christ from youth residential care, supported independent living, and family support services has sparked worries about the strain on remaining providers. These organizations are already struggling to meet demand, and the loss of a major provider could exacerbate existing issues. A spokesperson for the Churches of Christ described the decision as a “commercially necessary one,” stating that services will be transferred to other providers while foster and kinship care services will continue.

Hayes expressed deep concern over the uncertainty faced by children who have already experienced neglect and trauma. She highlighted the need for an independent inquiry, noting that the government, as the guardian of these children, is not fulfilling its duties. “These kids have already been let down by all of the adults in their lives,” she said, adding that the current system is failing to provide the intensive support many require.

PeakCare Queensland’s executive director, Tom Allsop, pointed out that over 1,700 children are in residential care in Queensland, a number that exceeds any other Australian state or territory. He warned that the current model is unsustainable and that residential care is not the best option for most children. “We don’t need another inquiry,” Allsop said, stressing the urgent need for systemic change.

The situation underscores the broader challenges facing Queensland’s child welfare system. Advocates argue that the overreliance on residential care reflects a failure to address the root causes of child neglect and trauma. As the Churches of Christ withdraw, the pressure on remaining providers intensifies, raising questions about the long-term viability of the system and the well-being of the children it serves.

The call for reform aligns with the biblical theme of justice, mercy, and humble service, as outlined in Micah 6:8. The need for accountability and compassionate care for the vulnerable remains a pressing issue, demanding attention and action from all sectors of society.

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