... allowed British law to intervene between the relationship between parents and children2. It is from the British legislation passed at that time, that Australia adopted such acts as their own legislation. Other acts that were established in Australia and were passed for the protection of children included the: Deserted Wives and Children Act 1840 - provided payments to destitute mothers and children Industrial and Reformatory School Act 1865 - Established penalties for child stealing and indecent assault of girls younger then 12 years Orphanages Act 1879 - Permitted homeless children under the age of 12 years to be cared for in state/parent-subsidized orphanages. 3 However, despite over a centaury of legislation aimed at protecting the needs of children and illuminating abuse, it seems now that more then ever cases of abuse are on the rise. Not only does abuse have social implications upon its victims, but it also affects our society as a ...

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