Out of desperation we submitted a formal complaint regarding the Department of Child Safety (DOCS), expressing our concerns about their lack of care and understanding. After reaching out to them, we were assured that someone would call us back with more information. However, one week has passed without any word, leaving us feeling even more frustrated.

A few weeks back, the DOCS representative made it clear to us,  that they believed our boys are not at risk while under our care ( their parents), so,  they are unable to help us, even though  our boys are missing and we feel they are vulnerable.  We are struggling to comprehend why our government has taken all rights from parents and given 12 year olds autonomy.

If DOCS are  unwilling to intervene in cases where children have self placed, it begs the question of who is truly protecting our vulnerable youth from dangers that await them on the streets.

In Queensland, once a child turns 12 they can self place. Parents lose all  their rights but are still responsible to ensure their child is registered with an education institution

This arbitrary  age for self placing seems to indicate that children  from 12 years old are capable of making their own decisions. HOWEVER, it overlooks the critical formative years thar teenage brains are still developing and maturing.

The reality is that many of these children, having removed themselves from the familial safety net at such a young age, are left to navigate a complex and often perilous world without the necessary guidance. The absence of parental support during this pivotal time increases the likelihood that they may veer down a dangerous path, making choices that could have long-lasting repercussions to the child, their familiy and their community.

 It is imperative that we reassess these policies surrounding our children in Queensland.

Please help us to change this legislation 

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