The Queensland government has initiated an independent review into how one of the nation’s worst paedophiles, Ashley Paul Griffith, was able to offend for nearly two decades undetected.
Griffith, sentenced to life imprisonment in 2024 for more than 300 offences committed at childcare centres in Brisbane and Italy, is appealing his sentence.
The inquiry, led by the Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC) Child Death Review Board, aims to identify failures within the state’s child protection system, focusing on early childhood education, police, and blue card systems.
It will assess systemic weaknesses and recommend improvements to prevent future abuse.
Premier David Crisafulli said the inquiry will expose systemic failings and lead to crucial reforms to enhance child protection.
“When parents drop their children off at childcare or school, they want to know everything is being done to protect them. This review will ensure we leave no stone unturned in strengthening the system,” Crisafulli said.
What is Queensland’s Blue Card System?
Queensland’s Blue Card Services manages the Working with Children Check (blue card) to ensure the safety of children in childcare, education, and sports.The system, regulated by the Working with Children (Risk Management and Screening) Act 2000 and its 2020 provisions, consists of four key components: identifying those needing a blue card, conducting national reference checks, continuous monitoring, and implementing child risk management strategies.
Blue cards are required for specific roles within 16 regulated employment categories and 12 regulated businesses.
However, organisations cannot mandate them if the work does not legally require it.
Enquiry to Examine Griffith’s Case
The inquiry will examine Griffith’s case as a case study to assess system responses to child sexual abuse and propose improvements.Child Death Review Board Chairperson Luke Twyford pledged to work closely with government agencies and community groups to identify gaps and improve protections.
“Our findings will be released publicly, and progress reports will ensure transparency and public confidence throughout the process,” Twyford said.
The review will consider insights from experts and victims of child sexual abuse to ensure thorough scrutiny of current safeguards.
The Queensland government has assured the public that strengthening the child protection framework remains a top priority.
As per the government statement, the Terms of Reference for the review have been endorsed, and work is set to begin immediately, with a final report expected later this year.
