Australia doubles child protection spending to $10.2 billion without improving outcomes

Australia's child protection spending nearly doubled to $10.2 billion between 2014-15 and 2023-24, yet investigation rates remained flat at roughly 20 per 1000 children, a Deakin University analysis found. Researchers say the system prioritizes costly out-of-home care over family support services. Experts are calling for a national prevention strategy and early intervention focus to break the cycle.

Summary by Glance · SMH