The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

1.1.A.110 At risk, at risk day (ACCS (child wellbeing))

Definition: at risk

A child is taken to be at risk of serious abuse or neglect if the child is at risk of suffering harm as a result of being subject to, or exposed to, one or more of the following events:

  • serious physical, emotional or psychological abuse
  • sexual abuse
  • domestic or family violence (1.1.F.15)
  • neglect, that is, a failure to be provided with the basic needs that are essential for the child's physical and emotional wellbeing

AND

  • the child is currently experiencing one or more of the events set out above, or
  • the risk of the child experiencing one or more of the events in the future is real and apparent.

A child may be taken to be at risk of suffering harm in relation to an event mentioned above even if the event occurred in the past.

A child is also taken to be at risk of serious abuse or neglect where the child is in need of care and protection under relevant state or territory law.

Act reference: CCSMinRules Part 2 Division 2—When children are at risk of serious abuse or neglect for ACCS (child wellbeing)

Policy reference: FA Guide 2.8.1.10 ACCS (child wellbeing) - eligibility, 2.8.1.20 ACCS (child wellbeing) - where a child is at risk of serious abuse or neglect

Definition: at risk day

For the purpose of an ACCS (child wellbeing) certificate, an 'at risk day' is any day where an approved provider considers that a child meets the above definition of 'at risk'.

For the purpose of an ACCS (child wellbeing) determination, an at risk day is any day where Services Australia considers that a child meets the above definition of at risk.

Act reference: FAAct section 85CB Certification for ACCS (child wellbeing)

Policy reference: FA Guide 2.8.1.10 ACCS (child wellbeing) - eligibility, 2.8.1.30 ACCS (child wellbeing) - certificates, 2.8.1.40 ACCS (child wellbeing) - determinations

Last reviewed: