media release


Safe Havens a stepping stone to saving babies

“The intent of Baby Safe Havens is not only to provide an alternative to those poor, desperate women who are abandoning their babies – as was the case in the recent incidents in Victoria and South Australia,” said Senator Polley.

“It is also an opportunity for new mothers to access medical help and support services without fear of being charged with abandonment.”

Senator Polley was responding to the article and editorial in today’s (Friday 26th September) Examiner.

“If Safe Haven laws had been present, then the babies in Victoria and South Australia may have been saved.”

“My speech to the Senate on Wednesday, 24 September 2008 calling for legislation to be enacted to create Baby Safe Havens stated quite clearly that this is only one component of a much larger reform effort,” said Senator Polley.

She went on to say, “I agree with Reverend Chris Jones of Anglicare that Safe Havens are a short-term solution. Long-term solutions would address the core causes of abandonment. Long-term solutions would promote education, awareness and prevention. 

However, it is important that we provide Safe Havens to help save the lives of abandoned children while more comprehensive responses are developed.”

Senator Polley said that she was circulating a copy of her speech to relevant organisations in order that it was understood exactly what she was suggesting. 

“I welcome any input from the community.  It is important we engage everyone in addressing this issue,” said Senator Polley.

“Parents who abandon their babies in unsafe places may have fallen through the cracks in a web of social service systems.  It would be useful in the long-term to identify those cracks and enhance the ability of current systems to care for these families,” suggested the Senator.

“Safe Haven Laws should be used as stepping stones to long-term solutions,” said Senator Polley.

For further information or a copy of Senator Polley’s speech:
Umesh Ratnagobal 02 6277 3129 or 0438 003 328
umesh.ratnagobal@aph.gov.au