Children’s removal likened to new Stolen Generation

A Busselton woman has joined a nationwide movement which likens the Government’s removal of children from their families to a new Stolen Generation.

Michelle Parker organised a rally at the Department for Child Protection and Family Support’s Busselton office on Monday as part of a National Day of Action.

Nationwide rallies coincided with National Sorry Day.

Ms Parker became involved after she lost custody of her four young children during a time when she was affected by domestic violence.

“From my own experience there have been fundamental failures in terms of Government practices which have been validated by investigations in the department, ” she said.

“They say it’s regrettable but they don’t want to take action on their mistake.”

Protestors are calling for a review of the legislation which leads to children’s forced removal.

Ms Parker said more funds should be put into working with families to keep them together.

“While every case is open to appeal, with the time and money required, in practice it is very difficult, ” she said.

“We’re talking about lower socio-economic people struggling and not having advantage at their fingertips.”

Ms Parker said it was difficult to be away from her children.

“I’ve missed all sorts of things — the first tooth, the first day of school, ” she said.

DCPFS acting director general Emma White strongly refuted the claims.

Ms White said the department’s role was to protect children and young people from abuse and neglect, as well as support families and people at risk or in crisis.

“The department has a strong commitment to working with Aboriginal people and applies the same assessment criteria to all families ensuring that the safety and wellbeing of the child comes first, ” she said.

“We have a formalised complaints management system, which is available to those who feel dissatisfied or concerned.”