Reference guide for carers – participating

Sleepovers

The Child Safety Service must approve:

• the first sleepover at a new household (you can provide permission for all subsequent sleepovers at that household for up to two nights) for all children under the age of six
• sleepovers of more than two nights for all children and young people in care
• all sleepovers for children and young people on Voluntary Care Orders (as parental permission is required) and Assessment Orders (where there has not been sufficient time for the child to establish a supportive relationship with their carer).

For all sleepovers, you must have confidence that the home where a sleepover is to occur is safe, that the responsible adults are known to you and are contactable, and can contact you at all times.

You must always have a plan with the child or young person so that they can contact you or another safe person if they change their mind or need support at any time during their sleepover.

Activities

You can make decisions relating to children and young people participating in activities, such as spending time with friends, participating in sports, community activities, and routine activities with you and your family.

You must ensure that all activities are safe and appropriate for the age and development of the child or young person.

The Child Safety Service must approve activities that involve a high risk of injury or death. For activities approved by the Child Safety Service, you can then sign the legal waiver or disclaimer. If you are unsure if an activity involves high risks, you must contact the Child Safety Service.

Travel and holidays

You can make decisions for travel and family holidays that are within Tasmania.

To the fullest extent possible, activities and travel dates should ensure children and young people don’t miss out on time with their natural family or school. You must provide the Child Safety Service and Care Team, where one is in place, with details of any planned travel.

The above guidance relating to permission for children and young people participating in high-risk activities applies, even when you and your family are present or where the activity is part of your holiday.

Passports

The Child Safety Service must approve all international travel plans, including location, dates and any relevant insurances and vaccinations, before an application for a passport can be completed. Once approved, the Child Safety Service will lodge the passport application.

This process may be long and you should submit travel plans as early as possible, allowing up to four months to obtain a passport.

You must hold the child or young person’s passport, as the responsible adult, whilst traveling with the child or young person. You must return the passport to the Child Safety Service, once you have returned to Australia.

Published June 2, 2026