In the heart of Adelaide, my life took a turn I never anticipated. With a history of federal custody of my children, I found myself inexplicably stripped of the right to be with them. Three of my children were placed on long-term orders based on unclear and unjustifiable grounds. As I fought to regain them, my world collapsed around me — I lost my home, suffered a traumatic brain injury from a severe accident, and battled to stay afloat while yearning for the family I had.

Despite having my youngest son reunified with me three years ago, the shadow of my past continues to haunt us. Recently, authorities removed him once again, the fourth time we've faced this devastation, citing historical data from my childhood and overlooking the progress I've made. This relentless cycle raises a critical question: how is it lawful to separate children from unabusive homes, particularly from parents like me with mental health diagnoses or disabilities?

There is an urgent need for an extensive investigation into the processes by which children are removed from families. We must examine how decisions are made and ensure they are based on current realities and just assessments, not on outdated or irrelevant past events. Parents with mental health or brain injury challenges already face significant battles; they should not have to fight against systems that are supposed to support them.

By implementing thorough investigative powers and revising criteria for child removal, we can prevent further injustice. Families deserve to stay together unless there is clear evidence of abuse or neglect—ambiguities shouldn't dictate the fates of our young ones.

I urge you to support my petition for a comprehensive review into child protection services, to hold them accountable, and demand transparency in their decision-making processes. Let us create a system that better protects both the interests of children and the rights of parents. Please sign and push for change. Our children’s futures depend on it.