The Allan Labor Government is introducing new laws to help families reunite safely and make sure children can grow up in secure, stable homes.
Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn today announced the introduction of the Children, Youth and Families (Supporting Stable and Strong Families) Bill 2025, which makes every Minister, Department and the Chief Commissioner of Police jointly responsible for improving outcomes for at‑risk children, young people and families.
Modelled on Scotland’s successful Corporate Parenting approach, the Scheme ensures supporting at risk children and families is no longer the responsibility of child protection alone. Every portfolio will play a role – whether it’s education, health, housing or community safety – so families get the right help when they need it.
For children in care, care leavers under 25 and families working towards reunification, the Scheme will deliver more coordinated support across Government, from schools to health services and housing agencies.
The Bill complements the Labor Government’s Children, Youth and Families Amendment (Stability) Bill 2025 introduced in October which creates more opportunities for families to safely reconnect.
The Stability Bill removes time limits on Family Reunification Orders, giving the Children’s Court the flexibility to provide families with more time to make the changes needed for their children to return home – when it’s safe and in the child’s best interests.
The Stability Bill delivers on Recommendation 25 of the Yoorrook for Justice report by the Yoorrook Justice Commission.
In response to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Historical Forced Adoption, the Stability Bill also restricts adoption on child protection grounds – unless a family has voluntarily offered a child for adoption. This reflects long-standing practice that adoption is not actively pursued by child protection.
Every child deserves a safe and stable home – and every family deserves the chance to come back together when it’s safe. These reforms make that possible, giving children the stability and connection they need to thrive.