New laws applying to the exchange of information about children and young people commenced on 30 October 2009. Chapter 16A of the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 clearly prioritises the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of a child or young person over an individual's right to privacy.

Chapter 16A allows government agencies and non-government organisations who are prescribed bodies to exchange information that relates to a child's or young person’s safety, welfare or wellbeing, whether or not the child or young person is known to Community Services, and whether or not the child or young person consents to the information exchange.

Chapter 16A also requires prescribed bodies to take reasonable steps to coordinate decision making and the delivery of services regarding children and young people.

Factsheets, guidance, checklists, and form letters to request and provide information are available in the Interagency Guidelines. Please note: the documents are listed at the bottom of the section Exchanging information relating to children or young people in a child wellbeing and child protection context.