I’ve received a call from DCJ about my child - What can this mean?

Few phone calls can make a parent’s heart sink quite like hearing, “Hello, this is DCJ Child Protection.”

It’s completely understandable to feel anxious when the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) makes contact. For many parents, the mind immediately jumps to worst-case scenarios. However, a call from DCJ is not a finding against you, nor does it mean anyone has concluded that your child is unsafe.

In most cases, DCJ is contacting you because a report has been made and they have a responsibility to assess the information they’ve received. Their role is to understand whether there are any concerns about a child’s safety, welfare, or wellbeing, and what support, if any, may be needed.

You may be asked questions about your child, your family circumstances, and any challenges your family is currently facing. While these conversations can feel personal, they are designed to help build a complete picture of your family’s situation.

What happens next will depend on the concerns raised. DCJ may decide that no further action is required, recommend support services, or undertake further assessment, which could include speaking with other professionals or visiting your home.

One important thing to remember is that DCJ is not looking for perfect parents. If they were, none of us would qualify. Their focus is on whether children are safe, cared for, and having their needs met.

If you receive a call from DCJ, try to approach the conversation with openness and honesty as this is important to gather the right information about you and your child. Ask questions if you’re unsure about the process and remember that an assessment is exactly that - an opportunity for DCJ to understand your family’s circumstances before making any decisions.

A call from DCJ can be confronting, but it is the beginning of a process, not the end of one.