Commissioner for Children and Young People Act 2016 (Tas)

Commissioner for Children and Young People Act 2016

An Act to make provision for the Commissioner for Children and Young People, to consequentially amend the Children, Young Persons and Their Families Act 1997 , the Tasmanian Early Years Foundation Act 2005 and the Youth Justice Act 1997 , and for related matters [Royal Assent 8 April 2016]

Be it enacted by Her Excellency the Governor of Tasmania, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Council and House of Assembly, in Parliament assembled, as follows:

PART 1 - Preliminary

1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Commissioner for Children and Young People Act 2016 .

2. Commencement The provisions of this Act commence on a day or days to be proclaimed.

3. Principles to be observed (1) The Commissioner or any other person performing a function, or exercising a power, under this Act, must – (a) do so according to the principle that the wellbeing and best interests of children and young people are paramount; and (b) observe any relevant provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. (2) Subject to subsection (1) , this Act is to be administered according to the following principles: (a) children are entitled to live in a caring and nurturing environment and to be protected from harm and exploitation; (b) the interests and needs of children and young people who are disadvantaged for any reason or vulnerable should be given special regard and serious consideration; (c) the contributions made by children to the community should be recognised for their value and merit; (d) the views of children on all matters affecting them should be given serious consideration and taken into account; (e) parents, families and communities have the primary role in safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of children and should be supported in carrying out their role.