Welcome to ACCAN 2015

Kia ora koutou

We are delighted to invite you to attend the 14th Australasian Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect (ACCAN 2015), in Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand from 29 March to 1 April 2015 at the Rendezvous Grand Hotel. ACCAN 2015 is being organised by the Australian Institute of Criminology in partnership with the New Zealand Ministry of Social Development.

The over-arching theme is Cultural responsiveness in a multi-agency world which recognises the complexities of child abuse and neglect and the need to engage across sectors, agencies and professions to best prevent and address child maltreatment. Equally importantly, current systems to address child abuse and neglect must evolve further to work effectively and in culturally responsive ways with indigenous people and those of other culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

ACCAN 2015 will provide a unique opportunity to engage researchers, policy makers, practitioners and others from New Zealand, Australia and internationally. The Conference will examine and discuss effective child abuse prevention systems and explore innovations in prevention and intervention - from community-based, community-led programs to therapeutic health and family interventions to statutory child protection services and criminal justice responses. A primary Conference objective is to encourage the exchange of ideas and practices and the development of friendships, professional exchanges and linkages for delegates and agencies from our region and beyond. Further, there will be a focus on the development of a ‘shared understanding’ between those of different professional backgrounds, cultures and geographical locations, and identify approaches and solutions that may be adapted and used across different communities.

Ngā mihi

Dr Adam Tomison Director, Australian Institute of Criminology Executive Councilor, International Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect Board Director, National Association for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect White Ribbon Ambassador

Mr Paul Nixon Chief Social Worker Child, Youth and Family Ministry of Social Development

 

Tiaki

The Māori concept of Tiaki, in this context inferring Tiaki Mokopuna, has been chosen as a symbol for this conference. Tiaki Mokopuna is a Tangata Whenua (Māori) indigenous cultural principle that asserts the collective roles, responsibilities and obligations to care for, make safe, protect and support our children and young people within healthy families (Eruera, King, Ruwhiu et. al, 2006).

The principle is founded in customary beliefs and when applied within the whānau (family) context, has the transformative potential to guide and strengthen strategies for ensuring the care and safety of our children and young people.

A rectangular shape has been used to provide a borderline for the kupu (word) Tiaki. The rectangle is a familiar and trusted shape, suggesting stability and honesty. From a Māori cultural perspective the rectangular shape Tapawhā (four sides) also aligns with a wellbeing framework for Māori health called Te Whare Tapawhā – the four sides of a house (Durie, 1994). In relation to Tiaki Mokopuna, it is all four sides or dimensions of their wellbeing need addressing – their family dynamics, physical, mental and spiritual needs – in order for them to flourish.