Working with Children Checks not reviewed despite sexual misconduct findings

Victoria's former children's commissioner did not refer cases involving sexual misconduct for review of Working with Children Checks, despite assurances that such cases would be examined. The commissioner explicitly stated she would not have initiated reviews for any case with a sexual component.

This revelation raises serious questions about the effectiveness of child protection mechanisms in Victoria. The failure to follow through on reviews, particularly in cases of sexual misconduct, undermines the integrity of the Working with Children Check system, designed to safeguard vulnerable individuals.

The article highlights a critical lapse in protocol, suggesting a potential systemic issue in how allegations of misconduct are handled and reviewed. The emphasis is on the commissioner's stated refusal to act, even when faced with findings that should have triggered a review.

“

would never have done so in cases involving any sexual element whatsoever