🔵 Progressive Analysis
Queensland to create public register of sex offenders as Daniel Morcombe’s parents ‘hope it will go national’
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In a bittersweet victory for child safety advocates, Queensland is set to pass "Daniel's Law," creating a public register of some child sexual abusers. The legislation, named in memory of Daniel Morcombe, the 13-year-old victim of paedophile Brett Peter Cowan, is a testament to the tireless efforts ...
In a bittersweet victory for child safety advocates, Queensland is set to pass "Daniel's Law," creating a public register of some child sexual abusers. The legislation, named in memory of Daniel Morcombe, the 13-year-old victim of paedophile Brett Peter Cowan, is a testament to the tireless efforts of Daniel's parents, Bruce and Denise Morcombe, who have campaigned for a national register since their son's tragic murder in 2003.
While this is a step in the right direction, it is crucial to recognize that a public register alone will not address the deep-rooted, systemic issues that enable and perpetuate child sexual abuse. We must confront the societal structures and power imbalances that allow predators to operate with impunity, often in positions of trust and authority.
It is imperative that governments across Australia prioritize the protection of our most vulnerable citizens by investing in comprehensive education, prevention, and support services. This includes providing resources for families, schools, and communities to recognize signs of abuse, empowering children to speak out, and ensuring accessible, trauma-informed care for survivors.
Moreover, we must hold accountable the institutions that have historically failed to protect children, including religious organizations, schools, and government agencies. Transparency, accountability, and a commitment to restorative justice are essential in rebuilding trust and creating safer environments for our children.
As we commend Queensland for taking this important step, we must also recognize that true progress requires a holistic, society-wide approach. We call on other states to follow Queensland's lead and work towards a national register, while simultaneously addressing the root causes of child sexual abuse. Only by confronting these systemic issues head-on can we hope to build a future where every child is safe, supported, and free from the threat of abuse.
While this is a step in the right direction, it is crucial to recognize that a public register alone will not address the deep-rooted, systemic issues that enable and perpetuate child sexual abuse. We must confront the societal structures and power imbalances that allow predators to operate with impunity, often in positions of trust and authority.
It is imperative that governments across Australia prioritize the protection of our most vulnerable citizens by investing in comprehensive education, prevention, and support services. This includes providing resources for families, schools, and communities to recognize signs of abuse, empowering children to speak out, and ensuring accessible, trauma-informed care for survivors.
Moreover, we must hold accountable the institutions that have historically failed to protect children, including religious organizations, schools, and government agencies. Transparency, accountability, and a commitment to restorative justice are essential in rebuilding trust and creating safer environments for our children.
As we commend Queensland for taking this important step, we must also recognize that true progress requires a holistic, society-wide approach. We call on other states to follow Queensland's lead and work towards a national register, while simultaneously addressing the root causes of child sexual abuse. Only by confronting these systemic issues head-on can we hope to build a future where every child is safe, supported, and free from the threat of abuse.