Statements
Safe Pathways update
Yesterday at around 12.45pm my office was informed by my department that they had taken the decision to remove children from the care of Safe Pathways.
Later in the afternoon at around 4pm I received preliminary verbal advice that the interim independent financial audit had revealed some anonomalies.
I’m also advised the ongoing media attention has caused a level of distress to some children at home and at school.
To be clear the 11 children remain safe – however on the basis of the latest advice and the ongoing media attention, it has been deemed prudent to transfer the children to alternative care until the review is completed – a decision I fully support.
The transfer will take place as soon as possible, but allowing time to ensure that all children are placed in appropriate alternative care with as little disruption as possible.
I am advised that the review of Safe Pathways is ongoing and I expect a report in coming weeks.
Jacquie Petrusma, Minister for Human Services