Foster couple in sex abuse probe

A FOSTER care couple is being investigated by Tasmania Police over the alleged sexual abuse of a child, the Mercury understands.

The alleged incident took place two years ago in the state’s North and has sparked concerns among child protection workers about the abuse of children in foster care.

They include limited resources preventing the removal of children subject to abuse unless that abuse is sexual in nature.

Tasmania Police said it was unable to confirm the investigation.

Human Services Minister Roger Jaensch said he was unaware of the specific allegations.

“If anybody out there has information that suggests a child may be at risk or being hurt they should immediately speak to the police or the child safety service,” he said.

“We would never be placing children with inappropriate foster carers.

“There are a range of processes to ensure the safety of children.”

Mr Jaensch said he was briefed regularly on incidents involving children.

The State Government admitted the child protection system was “broken” in 2015, when then-minister Jacquie Petrusma announced a redesign.

It came after the revelation that 151 referrals had been overlooked in the North-West as staff struggled to keep up.

Unions have called for 40 more child protection staff to be immediately recruited.

The Foster and Kinship Carers Association Tasmania did not return the Mercury’s calls.

The newly renamed Department of Communities Tasmania could not be contacted last night.