Are you a church minister in WA? You’re now a mandatory reporter!
If you’re in Western Australia, you may have heard about the latest changes to mandatory reporting laws. Here’s everything you need to know!
What’s changed?
As of November 1st, 2022, ministers of religion are now considered mandatory reporters. In line with Royal Commission recommendations 7.3 and 7.4, the changes will see reporting of child sexual abuse made mandatory for ministers of religion.
What does it mean for me?
If you become aware of any reasonable suspicion that a child is being abused or neglected, you are required by law to report it to the Mandatory Reporting Service on 1800 708 704 or lodge a written report here. And, as always, if you believe a child is in immediate danger, call the WA Police immediately on 000.
It’s also worth noting that the new law specifies that ministers are not exempt from reporting knowledge obtained during religious confessions.
What training is available?
To ensure you’re fully equipped to meet your responsibilities as a mandatory reporter, we encourage you to take the free government mandatory reporter training, found here.
Where can I find more information?
If you want more information, have a look at the Mandatory Reporting FAQs, or Mandatory Reporting of Child Sexual Abuse in WA.
Photo by René Ranisch on Unsplash