Delegated Authority
Indigenous Business Support Program
What is Delegated Authority?
Walking Together for Stronger Families, Culture and Connection
The Dhanba Ngadyu Mala (Yuwi Language: “Hold My Hand”) Delegated Authority Program supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people and families involved with, or at risk of becoming involved with, the child protection system.
Our program was created to improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children by ensuring decisions about their lives are guided by cultural knowledge, community connection and the voices of families themselves.
Through Delegated Authority, MARABISDA works alongside children and families to strengthen cultural identity, maintain family relationships and support safe pathways towards reunification. We believe children thrive when they remain connected to their kin, culture, community and Country.
How We Support Families
Our Delegated Authority team walks alongside children and families to strengthen connections to culture, kin and community while supporting their right to self-determination.
We work collaboratively with families to develop family time and connection plans, foster healthy relationships and provide referrals to culturally appropriate supports when needed.
Through a family-centred and culturally informed approach, we help ensure children’s voices remain at the heart of decision-making while working towards safe reunification outcomes that keep children connected, supported and culturally strong.
Does the program replace Child Safety?
No. Delegated Authority works alongside the child protection system. Specific decision-making responsibilities are delegated, while Child Safety continues to hold overall statutory responsibilities.
What types of decisions can MARABISDA make?
Delegated Authority decisions may relate to family connections, cultural connections, family time planning and reunification pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in care.
Who Can Access This Program?
We support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families who:
- Are involved with Child Safety services
- Have been identified or recommended for Delegated Authority
- Are subject to Child Protection Orders where custody or guardianship is held by the Chief Executive
- Are currently living in out-of-home care or residential placements
- Are seeking culturally focused support to strengthen family connections and work towards reunification
Referrals may come from Child Safety, family members, carers or the child themselves.
Our Focus Areas
Through Delegated Authority, we support culturally informed decisions that strengthen family connections, uphold self-determination and keep Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children connected to culture, community and Country.
Connection
We help children stay connected to their family, culture, community and Country by determining where, when and how these important connections occur.
Family Time Planning
We work closely with families to develop and approve family time plans that support meaningful and positive relationships.
Reunification
We support safe reunification by helping children return home to parents and family when the time is right, ensuring they remain connected, supported and culturally strong throughout the journey.
Meet the Team
Walking Beside Our Families Every Step of the Way
We believe children are strongest when they remain connected to family, culture and community. Through the Dhanba Ngadyu Mala (Hold My Hand) Delegated Authority Program, we walk alongside children and families to create culturally safe pathways towards healing, connection and reunification.
Speak with our team today to learn how we can support your family.
