Caution:

This site includes information about child deaths, which some readers may find distressing. If you need support, free and confidential help is available. 

We wish to convey our sincere condolences to the families and friends of the infants, children and young people in NSW who have died. It is our foremost responsibility to learn from these deaths and to use that knowledge to make a difference.

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Current projects

Overview

Building knowledge to protect children and young people

Our research helps build a clearer picture of the factors that contribute to the deaths of children and young people in NSW.

Each project is seeking to identify opportunities for prevention and improved systems and supports for children, families, and communities across NSW.

Our current focus areas

Our current research focuses on two areas of emerging importance: suicide-related deaths among LGBTIQ+ young people, and perinatal deaths caused by severe brain injury.

What we aim to understand

This project explores the factors, behaviours, and circumstances surrounding suicide-related deaths of young people in NSW aged 10–17 who identified as LGBTIQ+.

The goal is to gain a deeper understanding of these deaths, and identify ways to prevent or reduce the likelihood of similar deaths in the future.

What the research involves

The project combines three complementary strands of work:

  • a cohort review to identify key risk factors and potential opportunities for prevention
  • a literature review to examine evidence-based prevention measures and protected factors
  • a desktop review of existing countermeasures and supports currently in place in NSW for LGBTIQ+ young people.

Why it matters

LGBTIQ+ young people may face unique social and emotional challenges that increase their vulnerability to suicide. This research will help build a clearer picture of those challenges, identify where support systems need strengthening, and inform more inclusive, responsive approaches to suicide prevention among this cohort in NSW.

What we aim to understand

This follow-up review builds on the CDRT’s earlier study of perinatal deaths from severe brain injury in NSW.

It aims to understand the key contributory factors in these infant deaths, evaluate the adequacy of existing clinical practice guidelines and policies, identify prevention opportunities and make recommendations to prevent similar deaths in the future.

What the research involves

The study includes:

  • a cohort review to analyse cases and identify patterns
  • a validation exercise to confirm findings and ensure accuracy
  • a review of relevant policies, guidelines, and clinical practices to assess adequacy, adherence, and any changes since the initial study.

Why it matters

By identifying what has changed, and what still needs to improve, this review will help inform recommendations that strengthen perinatal care and safety for infants and their families across NSW.