Here there are three flowcharts of the New South Wales child protection system. Each one is different. They are designed based on what the system says should be happening and what could happen.
It is the experience of other Aboriginal families that this is not always being followed. Look at these flowcharts to find out where you are in the system, and what should be coming next. Click on the flowchart ‘buttons’ to find out more information about that stage in the system.
This is an in–depth look at how the children’s court operates, using the system’s language.
This is an in-depth look at how the child protection system (mostly DCJ) operates, using the system’s language.
This is a more accessible flowchart of the entire system (court and child protection), with action points for you at different stages.
AbSec and our partners acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout NSW and their continuing connections to land, waters, and communities. We also acknowledge the lands on which these stories were told, the lands of the Dharawal, Yuin and Wonnarua people.
We acknowledge the Elders, leaders and advocates that have led the way and continue to fight for our children. We also acknowledge the Stolen Generations who never came home and the ongoing impact of government policy and practice on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people and families.
This website shares the experiences and advice of Aboriginal families involved in the NSW child protection system who participated in the Bring Them Home, Keep Them Home research at UNSW. We acknowledge and thank the families who generously gave permission to share their stories.
These experiences reflect what worked for those families and do not constitute advice or views of AbSec. AbSec recommends seeking independent legal advice for your own circumstances.
