MARABISDA uses local knowledge to build the capacity of the Mackay region’s Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Australian South Sea Islander community.
MARABISDA uses local knowledge to build the capacity of the Mackay region’s Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Australian South Sea Islander community.
The Dhanba Ngadyu Mala (Yuwi Language: “Hold My Hand”) Delegated Authority program is aimed to improve the outcomes for and address the disproportionate representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in the child protection system.
This approach introduces a new way to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in the child protection system. It emphasizes cultural knowledge and considers the needs and desires of these children and their families.
The policy allows the Chief Executive to transfer their legal powers and responsibilities under the Child Protection Act 1999 in cases involving an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child. They can delegate these powers to the CEO of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community-Controlled Organisation if the CEO is Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.
As a result, the CEO (or a similar role) of the organization can make certain decisions. These decisions involve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care
Delegated Authority was trialled on the Sunshine Coast, Rockhampton and Central Queensland in 2019. Due to their success, this work continues for our children and families to stay connected. Key findings by *QATSICPP about Delegated Authority was about recognising the shift to do things “our way” which is giving children, families voice, choice and bringing them to the table to make decisions about their children. MARABISDA Inc. is working in partnership with this approach doing things “our way” increasing and acknowledging cultural capability throughout child protection practices.
*Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Child Protection (QATSICPP) - their focus is to provide a collective voice for the rights and protection of Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
Referrals to the Delegated Authority can be made if:
We will walk with our children, families who have been identified or recommended to Delegated Authority who may be involved with Child Safety or at risk of being involved with Child Safety. Once the recommendation has been assigned, our CEO Adrienne Barnett will make decisions about:
· CONNECTION: where, when and how often our children spend time with family, culture and community.
· FAMILY TIME PLANNING: approving family time plans
· REUNIFICATION: when and how we bring our children home to parents/family, so they will be connected, safe and supported.
Our CEO Adrienne Barnett will lead the implementation of decisions for our Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander children, young people and their families, ensuring we are aligned with our communities needs and priorities.
The Delegated Authority team will meet and engage with the children, family to :
- Develop family time and connection plans, support families to exercise their right to self-determination
- Walk alongside children, families to reconnect with family and culture
- Support them to foster healthy cultural relationships as we work towards returning them home
- Provide referrals as required to support the parents and children develop positive long term relationships.
