6. Underpinning values

The Case Management Framework is underpinned by the values that are guided by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and outlined in ‘Protecting Children is Everyone’s Business, A National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children 2009–2020’ (COAG, 2009).

• All children have a right to grow up in an environment free from neglect and abuse. Their best interests are paramount in all decisions affecting them.
• Improving the safety and wellbeing of children is a national priority.
• The safety and wellbeing of children is primarily the responsibility of their families, who should be supported by their communities and governments.
• Australian society values, supports and works in partnership with parents, families and others in fulfilling their caring responsibilities for children.
• Children and their families have a right to participate in decisions affecting them.
• Policies and interventions are evidence informed.
• Children’s rights are upheld by systems and institutions.