Any member of the community, including mandatory reporters, who suspect, on reasonable grounds, that a child or young person is at risk of significant harm should report their concerns to the Child Protection Helpline.

Many staff within the Diocese are required as part of their role to submit and make ROSH reports to DCJ. It is common knowledge that DCJ are experiencing high reporting numbers, therefore the timeframes ROSH reports are reviewed, assessed and allocated has increased.

Whilst online reporting is a convenient option, this method of reporting is best for submitting non-imminent Risks of Significant Harm concerns. The current response time for DCJ to review E-reports is 6-8 weeks from the time of submission. By this time E-reports are likely closed prior to any review being undertaken by a staff member.

Given this timeframe, it is imperative when making a ROSH report in the event you hold concerns for a child involving physical abuse, sexual abuse, family violence, where a child has sustained an injury or have concerns that a child is in serious and immediate danger that you contact the Helpline directly on 132 111.

Furthermore, it is important to remember the purpose of the MRG (Mandatory Reporters Guide). The MRG is a tool; it is a guide to assist you in how to report and address the concerns relating to a child. Results from the MRG are not saved or sent to DCJ, this is not a live or monitored program and simply used as a reporting guide.

• If the MRG outcome states to report to child protection helpline – ensure this advice is actioned. There is a reason why the decision outcome has provided this advice based on the answers you have provided.
• If the MRG outcome states to consult or document and monitor for example, however you still have concerns or worries for the child, contact DCJ and make a report. You don’t have to complete the MRG tool to make a ROSH report.
• If you hold multiple concerns for a child there is not a ‘one fit all’ category on the MRG, so you need to run it multiple times depending on the concerns. However, if you contact DCJ to make a report you can provide all concerns at the one time.