Tuesday, 20 June 2023

 The SPEAKER (12:09): I have received a message from the Legislative Council agreeing to the Children and Health Legislation Amendment (Statement of Recognition, Aboriginal Self-determination and Other Matters) Bill 2023 with amendments.

Ordered that amendments be taken into consideration immediately.

Message from Council relating to following amendments considered:

1.   Clause 4, after line 24 insert –

“7AA Statement of acknowledgement

(1) The Parliament acknowledges that removing an Aboriginal child from the care of a parent may –

(a)   disrupt the child’s connection to their culture; and

(b)   cause harm to the child, including serious harm.

(2) The Parliament does not intend by this section to affect in any way the interpretation of this Act or of any other laws in force in Victoria.”.

2.   Insert the following New Clause to follow clause 4 –

‘4A Aboriginal Child Placement Principle

(1) After section 13(3) of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 insert –

“(4)   For the avoidance of doubt, the Court or a bail justice (as the case may be) must have regard to the Aboriginal Child Placement Principle in making any decision or taking any action in respect of a child in need of protection under Chapter 4.”.’.

3.   Clause 7, page 14, lines 33 to 36, omit all words and expressions on these lines.

4.   Clause 7, page 15, lines 1 to 3, omit all words and expressions on these lines.

5.   Clause 7, page 15, line 4, omit “(9)” and insert “(8)”.

 Mary-Anne THOMAS (Macedon – Leader of the House, Minister for Health, Minister for Health Infrastructure, Minister for Medical Research) (12:11): I move:

That the amendments be agreed to.

Motion agreed to.

The SPEAKER: A message will now be sent to the Legislative Council informing them of the house’s decision.