Identify and respond to children and young people at risk - NSW ...

other children at risk. The childcare centre contacts the new
centre and offers to provide information about the child’s needs.
Note that you can pass on information obtained through Chapter
16A to other agencies, but only where they are also prescribed
bodies.
PowerPoint 3.15: Information exchange
Facilitator’s note
Different organisations will have different policies and procedures in
relation to who can make decisions about participating in information
exchanges. Focus on general organisational obligations.
Emphasise that information is exchanged between prescribed bodies,
not individuals. Stress the importance of participants following policies
and procedures, including, where relevant seeking advice from their
manager when participants receive a request for information, or before
initiating an exchange.
Agencies should have their own policies and procedures to ensure that
information exchanges are lawful and to provide guidance about documentation.
Policies and procedures may include checks regarding the identity of someone
requesting or providing information if they are not known to the organisation.
Managers can also provide guidance about how to involve family members in
the information exchange process.
Note that it is not necessary for a child to have been subject to a report of
significant risk of harm, except for an unborn child who must have been subject
to a s.25 prenatal report.
Emphasise that the identity of a reporter must not be disclosed as part of an
exchange of information. **However if law enforcement agencies require the
identity of a reporter in order to investigate serious offences alleged to have
been committed against children or young people, the identity of the reporter
may be released to the police.
Information exchanges can be verbal (e.g. at a case meeting) but it is good
practice to ensure a written record.
Note that exchanges only involve information already held by the organisation.
You cannot be directed to conduct further assessment or information gathering
to address requests for information.
PowerPoint 3.16 Protection for reporters when information is
exchanged summarises the protections in relation to exchange of
information and reporting. Refer participants to s.29, s.245G and s.248
(3) if they want more detailed information about the protection
provided. They should seek their manager’s advice if they have concerns
about liability arising from an individual case.
Participants may need time to ask questions and ensure they
understand the information exchange provisions, especially if they have
not previously worked with children and families. Focus discussion on
Keep Them Safe CHCCHILD401A – Facilitator’s Manual
© The NSW Technical and Further Education Commission
(TAFE NSW – Industry Skills Unit, Meadowbank, 2010)
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