This research project seeks to develop a response on international best practice for protecting children from child sexual abuse. This will include producing two critical reports, which will benchmark the latest practice, research and policy, globally, on preventing child sexual exploitation and responding to allegations of abuse. A critical review of existing materials will be conducted, using thematic analysis. This approach will enable a cross-disciplinary, multi-jurisdictional study, including Australian and international sources, that is accurate, swift and cost-effective.

Impact

On 4 December 2024, the Attorney General requested the Child Death Review Board conduct a Review of System Responses to Child Sexual Abuse empowered by section 29I of the Queensland Family and Child Commission Act 2014. The Terms of Reference request the identification of best practice across Australia and internationally for: protecting children from sexual abuse identifying perpetrators and children at risk and responding to allegations. This project contributes to the satisfaction of Review. The Queensland Child and Family Commission and the Child Death Review Board is seeking to use the project findings to inform policy and make recommendations for systemic change.

Chief Investigators: Moritz, D., Price, S., Dodds, L., and Mitchell, D.

Research Assistants: Prasser, J., Marlou Saranillo, C., and Christie, E.

Funding Body: Queensland Family and Child Commission 

Funding year: 2025