child abuse

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Recommended: Causes and effects of child abuse

1.0 Introduction
Child abuse is never an issue that can be overlooked, which is why all incidences must be reported immediately for the sake of the young victim suffering to ensure immediate action is taken and the maximum protection can be achieved.

In Australia all state and territory governments have the statutory responsibility for protecting all children from child abuse and neglect. In Queensland the key legislation which covers the area of child abuse is the Child Protection Act 1999 (QLD) which is an act that outlines the rights and provides protection for children. The legislation only covers the jurisdiction of the state of Queensland.

Child abuse can be in different forms such as physical, emotional, sexual and neglect. Too many children and young adults have experienced the traumatic feeling of being abused by family members or other adults. It can take place in all kinds of families and demographics; rich or poor, small or large and well educated or not.

2.0 What is Child Abuse
Many children are victimized by child abuse, Child abuse is defined “any non-accidental behaviour by parents, caregivers, other adults or older adolescents that is outside the norms of conduct and entails a substantial risk of causing physical or emotional harm to a child or young person” (AIFS). Children who are abused are more likely to display socially disruptive behaviour such as abusing alcohol and drugs, or engaging in high-risk sexual behaviours. They may also have excessive fears and withdraw from normal activities. Any kind of child abuse can, and does, happen in all types of families, regardless of their background.

Most parents want the best for their children. However, some parents may harm their children because of str...

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...opting harsher penalties for those who commit crimes and also for those who don’t report suspicions of child abuse.

5.0 Recommendations
There are a number of methods to improve the enforcement of the Child Protection Act 1999 (Qld). One of the most effective ways is to enforce a minimum sentence of life imprisonment for those who heinously abuse a child or children. Furthermore, organisations which deal with child abuse should receive more funding from the government so they are able to police child abuse to a greater effect. Finally, the government should launch more campaigns to inform citizens about child abuse. This includes programs in schools, as children often blame themselves for the abuse. With the general public having a deeper understanding of the severity of child abuse in Australia, the occurrence of child abuse in our society is surely to decrease.

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