CASPA is at the forefront of advocating for children's rights in Australia, particularly focusing on those in Out of Home Care (OOHC).
Our research paper, submitted to be published in the Special Issue of Children Australia (2024), titled "Children, Trauma and the Law," highlights key lessons from various case studies. This research underscores the critical importance of maintaining children's rights and their lived experiences in fostering the emotional wellbeing of children. Emphasising children's rights is essential, as it leads to more positive healing outcomes for young people and must be integrated into casework practices.
A significant aspect of CASPA’s advocacy is the respect for children's rights. We believe it is crucial to consider children's perspectives and lived experiences regarding their family relationships. Empowering children to understand and exercise a sense of agency is vital for their development. This approach is particularly important for young parents in OOHC, emphasising the need for adequate support to navigate their unique challenges.
Recognising the historical and ongoing challenges within OOHC, CASPA advocates for systemic reforms that prioritise children's rights and wellbeing. Our aim is to inspire a more effective child protection system that places children and young people’s rights and lived experiences at the forefront. This advocacy also extends to broader issues, such as the current debate on the age of criminal responsibility in the Northern Territory.
Recently, CASPA expressed strong concerns regarding the Northern Territory Government's legislation change to lower the age of criminal responsibility to 10. In response, we joined community representatives and concerned citizens at a rally outside Parliament House to oppose the proposed law reform. The presence of young people from the therapeutic care system highlighted the real-life implications of such measures.
Evidence shows that early contact with the criminal justice system increases the likelihood of reoffending. We advocate for restorative programs that support growth and healing rather than the criminalisation of children and young people who are suffering the effects of traumatic childhoods and require our care and understanding.
Through these advocacy efforts and our commitment to improving health and living conditions for those in care, CASPA aims to promote social justice and uphold the rights of children. Ultimately, our work seeks to create a more compassionate and effective system that prioritises the wellbeing of young people over punitive measures.