The death of Bradyn Dillon in 2016 was a tragedy that continues to be deeply felt by his family and many in our community.
In responding to the Coroner's report on Bradyn's death, my thoughts are with his mother and family and all those who knew him.
As a community, we mourn any death that is the result of family violence and recognise our duty to do more.
Today, I tabled the ACT Government's response to ACT Coroner Margaret Hunter's report into Bradyn's death. Coroner Hunter's report made 17 recommendations across child protection, education and information sharing. The ACT Government agrees with the intent of all recommendations, which will inform our ongoing reform agenda and sharpen our focus on improving the services that protect children and young people.
The ACT Government is absolutely committed to the prevention of domestic and family violence and to learning from the terrible circumstances of Bradyn's death. Coroner Hunter's report underscores the critical importance of this work, which began in 2016 with significant reform and record investment across our child protection and domestic and family violence systems.
Building on this ongoing work, informed by Coroner Hunter's recommendations, the ACT Government will:
- continue to improve workforce development, training and guidance for child protection professionals
- provide better support and training for mandated reporters – specified professions who are legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect
- improve information sharing between ACT Government directorates and across states and territories
- review and strengthen the ACT's child protection legislation
- increase funding and build partnerships to meet growing demand
Every child deserves to be safe in their home and we are committed to doing more to ensure children and young people in the ACT have every opportunity to live happy and full lives.
I acknowledge the impact of the Coronial process on every person who was involved in the inquest into Bradyn's death, and I thank them for helping to inform improvements that will strengthen the systems that prevent and respond to family violence.
If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to services in our community:
- 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS): 6280 0900 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
