Mandatory Reporter Guide

DCJ is reviewing the Mandatory Reporter Guide (MRG). The MRG helps mandatory reporters decide whether to report their concerns of possible abuse or neglect of a child to the DCJ Child Protection Helpline. It also helps reporters to understand how they can help the child.

Changes to make better decisions for children 

The changes will:

  • proactively identify Aboriginal children and families so they receive a more culturally appropriate service 
  • help reporters link families to early intervention services when these best suit their needs 
  • identify family strengths including how cultural practices can support a child’s safety 
  • consider the impact of more factors in a child’s life to guide decisions. 

Progress

  • Mandatory reporters in NSW – including NSW Police, Education and Health – were surveyed about their experiences using the MRG. 
  • Focus groups with mandatory reporters were held to understand what changes would help to improve the MRG. 
  • Consultation continues and work has started on the design to determine policy, tool, and practice changes. Learn more about the consultation process.
Last updated:

28 Aug 2023

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We acknowledge Aboriginal people as the First Nations Peoples of NSW and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and future. 

Informed by lessons of the past, Department of Communities and Justice is improving how we work with Aboriginal people and communities. We listen and learn from the knowledge, strength and resilience of Stolen Generations Survivors, Aboriginal Elders and Aboriginal communities.

You can access our apology to the Stolen Generations.

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