DCP use of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Placement Principle (ATSICPP)

The South Australian Government Parliamentary Declaration states that the performance of functions in the administration and operation of the Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017, be done in collaboration with, and with the co-operation of, children and young people and their families rather than simply being done to or for them.

Government and the Department of Child Protection (DCP) have laid the groundwork to approach Aboriginal child protection matters differently and must now demonstrate with accountability, the use of all 5 Elements of the Placement Principle and Active Efforts to bring about meaningful change that will ensure positive outcomes for Aboriginal parents, family and community.

ATSICPP is a guiding principle and sits at the heart of the Department of Child Protection’s Practice Approach. To apply ATSICPP, the Elements of the Placement Principle must be used to uphold and ensure what is in the best interest of the child.