Day-to-day care
Every parent and carer knows that family life is full of decisions, big and small. As a carer, there will be some everyday decisions you can make independently, and some that need the approval of your caseworker or agency.
Consents for performances, photography and broadcast
Children and young people in care should be encouraged and supported to participate in positive experiences and activities, including those that may be covered by the media such as spelling bees, choir performances or sports days. Sometimes, special conditions or consents will be required. If you are in any doubt, check with your caseworker.
Public performances and media
You can give permission for kids to participate in public performances and activities covered by the media, but you must be sure they are not identified in the media as being in out-of-home care. Talk to your caseworker about any request to publish or broadcast photographs, film or anything that identifies a child or young person as being in care, including publishing the names of their parents. It’s very important that:
- there are no safety risks or casework concerns with the appearance of the child or young person
- it’s in the best interests of the child or young person to appear in the media
- their personal history or current status is not broadcast or published.
In some cases, consent must be obtained before the child’s name or any personally identifying information can be broadcast or published. This could be if the child or young person is involved or likely to be involved in any Children’s Court matter. Consent must be obtained from:
- the Court (for a child)
- the young person if the Minister doesn’t have parental responsibility
- the Family and Community Services Secretary if the Minister has parental responsibility for the child or young person.
Consent to publish or broadcast personally identifying information must also be sought if the child or young person has passed away.
In all situations, consider the safety, welfare and wellbeing of the child or young person’s needs first. Don’t give out information that discloses their whereabouts if this information is protected. There is a risk that the publication or broadcast of identifying information may alert inappropriate people to the location of the child or young person. If you’re in any doubt, talk to your caseworker.
Photography
You don’t require consent for kids to appear in a school photo, sports team photo or home video, as long as it’s for personal use.