Knowing the signs of harm can help you respond to concerns about a child's safety and wellbeing.
This page explains what it means for a child to be at risk, when you should take action, and common signs that may indicate a child needs support or protection.
On this page:
What does "at risk" mean?
Under the Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017, a child is considered at risk when they have experienced harm, or there is a likelihood they will experience harm, and they are not being adequately protected from it. A child may also be at risk in other situations where their safety, care or wellbeing is seriously affected.
What does "harm" mean?
Harm can be physical or psychological. It may result from a person's actions or from failing to provide the care and support a child needs. Harm can include physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse and neglect.
Situations where a child may be at risk
Some situations that may place a child at risk include:
- Harm or likelihood of harm – they have experienced harm, or there are concerns they may experience harm in the future and are not being protected from it.
- Abandonment or inability to care – a parent or guardian:
- is unable or unwilling to care for them
- has abandoned them
- cannot be located
- has died and suitable care arrangements are not available.
- Not attending school – they are required to attend school and are regularly absent without a reasonable explanation.
- Homelessness – they are homeless or do not have a stable place to live.
- Removal for unlawful practices – there are concerns they may be removed from South Australia to:
- undergo a medical procedure that would be unlawful in South Australia, including female genital mutilation
- take part in a marriage that would be invalid under Australian law
- participate in an activity that would be illegal in South Australia.
If you are concerned about a child
If you recognise signs that a child may be experiencing harm, it is important to take your concerns seriously.
You do not need proof that a child is being harmed before taking action.
You may have reasonable grounds to be concerned when:
- a child tells you they have been harmed or are at risk
- your observations of a child's behaviour, wellbeing or injuries cause concern
- a child tells you someone else has been harmed or is at risk
- a trusted person provides information that raises concerns about a child's safety.
If you are concerned about a child's safety or wellbeing, contact the Child Abuse Report Line (CARL) on 13 14 78 or learn more about your reporting responsibilities and options below.
- Responding to a disclosure – what to do if a child tells you about harm or abuse.
- Making a report – when and how to report your concerns.
- Understanding mandatory reporting – who must report and their legal responsibilities.