Australian Capital Territory Numbered Acts

CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE AMENDMENT ACT 2007 (NO. 4 OF 2007) - SECT 6

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157A     Prenatal reporting—anticipated abuse or neglect

    (1)     This section applies if, during a pregnancy, a person suspects or believes that a child who may be born as a result of the pregnancy may be in need of care and protection.

    (2)     The person may report the suspicion or belief, and the supporting reasons, to the chief executive.

    (3)     The chief executive may, with the consent of the pregnant woman, take whatever action the chief executive considers appropriate in relation to the report, including any of the following:

        (a)     providing a voluntary assessment of whether the child is likely to be in need of care and protection after the child is born;

        (b)     providing or arranging voluntary support services for the pregnant woman, and any family member who may be involved in caring for the child.

    (4)     The chief executive is not required to act in relation to a report under this section.

    (5)     The chief executive must ensure, as far as practicable, that any action taken because of this section is appropriate and consistent with the pregnant woman's human rights.