The Guardian ad litem National Service will be a nationally organised and managed service established to ensure that children’s voices are heard, and their best interests are independently presented, by an appointed Guardian ad litem, in child care proceedings. The Guardian ad litem National Service, as provided for under the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2022, will come into effect mid-2026, following approval.
This Department established the Executive Office, Guardian ad litem National Service in January 2025. Its mandate is to establish the National Service and prepare for commencement of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2022, ensuring the Act achieves its intended government policy objectives. The independence of Guardians ad litem in the performance of their functions is a legislative requirement and a core value of the role. The Child Care (Amendment) Act 2022 clearly states that Guardians ad litem must act independently in their professional judgment and function.
The establishment of the National Service is being informed by continuous and structured engagement with practitioners, representative bodies, and expert advisers. This engagement will continue and I am open to meeting with stakeholders at an appropriate time.
