《CVRHK》［Local news］Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Ordinance Takes Effect Today
- 全民新聞 CVRHK
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［20 Jan 2026］
Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Ordinance Takes Effect Today
The Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Ordinance (Cap. 650) officially came into force today (January 20), marking a new era in Hong Kong's child protection efforts. Twenty-five categories of specified professionals across social welfare, education, and healthcare sectors—such as social workers, teachers, doctors, nurses, and staff at child care institutions—now have a legal duty to report promptly to the Director of Social Welfare or Commissioner of Police if they have reasonable grounds to suspect a child is suffering or at substantial risk of serious harm during their work.
The ordinance covers physical abuse like fractures or burns, psychological harm causing long-term trauma, sexual offenses, and neglect such as deprivation of essentials. Failure to report carries a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and three months' imprisonment, though exemptions apply if the matter was already reported to another professional or known to authorities. The Labour and Welfare Bureau launched a promotional video "Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse: Safeguarding Childhood," noting over 1,000 child protection cases in 2024 and urging heightened public vigilance.
The government has issued a Reporter's Guide and online training to help professionals identify and report cases, with the Social Welfare Department setting up a hotline for referrals. Drawing from Australian and UK models, the law aims to boost detection of severe child abuse, weaving a stronger safety net for those under 18.
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