The Government has launched a new inter-agency hub and begun the first phase of mandatory training for frontline children’s workers, as part of wider efforts to keep vulnerable children safe.

Child Poverty Reduction Minister Louise Upston said the changes are aimed at protecting children whose sole parent or caregiver is facing remand or imprisonment.

More than 2,000 children are expected to be affected this year, making early support and clear coordination between agencies critical.

“These initiatives will strengthen the safety net for some of our most vulnerable children,” Ms Upston said.

Faster support for at-risk children

The new in-person hub brings staff from key child-focused agencies together at the Oranga Tamariki National Contact Centre. Oranga Tamariki is the government agency responsible for child wellbeing and protection.

By working side-by-side, agencies will be able to share information quickly and safely, helping to identify risks and respond sooner when concerns are raised.

Under the new approach, when agencies identify a child whose sole caregiver is entering the justice system, a report will be made to Oranga Tamariki. This will trigger an immediate focus on the child’s safety, wellbeing, and care arrangements.

An initial assessment will be completed within 48 hours, helping determine whether the child needs statutory intervention or can be supported through community services.

“This ensures every child gets the right response, based on their individual needs,” Ms Upston said.

Mandatory training begins for children’s workers

Alongside the new hub, the Government has begun testing mandatory child protection training for core children’s workers across several agencies.

The first phase involves a short online module covering essential child protection knowledge. While a full training programme is still being developed, the Minister said urgent action was needed to address known gaps.

The training is being tested with workers from Health NZ, New Zealand Police, the Ministry of Social Development, the Ministry of Education, the Department of Corrections, and Oranga Tamariki.

Ms Upston said many workers already receive child protection training, but standardising and strengthening it will help ensure consistent and high-quality responses across agencies.

Part of a wider child protection response

The initiatives follow the Government’s acceptance of all recommendations from the Dame Karen Poutasi Review last year, as well as recommendations from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care.

Ms Upston acknowledged Dame Karen’s contribution to child wellbeing and her long public service career.

“She was deeply committed to protecting children,” Ms Upston said.

The Minister also acknowledged the “Dear Children” public awareness campaign launched by Mana Mokopuna – Children’s Commission in December. Mana Mokopuna is the independent body that advocates for the rights and wellbeing of children in Aotearoa.

“It’s been encouraging to see this campaign raise awareness about the signs of abuse and how people can speak up,” Ms Upston said.

She said the steps announced today are part of an ongoing, joined-up government response focused on keeping children safe.