Online supervised contact lets children keep in touch with a parent or family member by video, with a trained supervisor monitoring every session in real time. Safe Steps provides online supervised contact for families across Perth, regional Western Australia and interstate, where it’s assessed as suitable.
What is online supervised contact?
Online supervised contact is a video visit between a child and a parent or family member, supervised in real time by a trained Safe Steps staff member. The supervisor joins the secure video session, monitors the conversation and can pause or end the call if anything puts the child at risk.
When online contact can help
- the parent lives in regional WA, interstate or overseas
- travel isn’t practical between in-person visits
- contact is being reintroduced gradually after a long gap
- in-person visits aren’t possible for a period of time
Online contact is offered where it’s assessed as suitable for the child and fits any court orders. It can be used on its own or alongside in-person supervised contact.
How a video visit works
- Intake and assessment. Each parent completes intake separately, including a risk assessment.
- Agreed plan. We agree session times, length and any conditions, such as topics to avoid or who may be present.
- Secure session. The supervisor opens the session and stays connected for the whole call.
- Active monitoring. The supervisor makes sure the conversation stays appropriate and child-focused, and can intervene, pause or end the session if needed.
- Factual notes. Where needed, observations are recorded and can support a court report.
Tips for a good video visit
- Use a quiet, private space with a steady internet connection.
- Keep sessions short and positive for younger children.
- Plan something to share, like a book, a drawing, a game or a show-and-tell.
- Keep adult issues out of the conversation.
Available across Western Australia
Because sessions are online, families anywhere in WA can use the service, including regional areas. Sessions are available 24/7, including weekends and public holidays, subject to staff availability.
Cost of online supervised contact
Fees depend on how often sessions happen and how long they run. Your initial enquiry is free. Email info@safestepsccs.com.au for a quote.
Frequently asked questions
Is online supervised contact really supervised?
Yes. A trained supervisor is connected for the entire video session and can pause or end the call if the child’s safety or wellbeing requires it.
Who decides if online contact is suitable?
Suitability is assessed at intake, taking into account each parent’s risk assessment, the child’s age and needs, and any court orders.
Can online contact be combined with in-person visits?
Yes. Some families use video visits between in-person supervised visits, for example when a parent lives far away.
Can parents outside Perth use online supervised contact?
Yes. Online supervised contact is available for families in regional areas or interstate, where it’s assessed as suitable.
Start a referral
Family lawyers, independent children’s lawyers, case managers, the Department of Communities, community organisations and parents themselves can refer to Safe Steps. We acknowledge referrals within 2 business days and confirm a decision within 5 business days of a complete referral.
Make a referral online · Contact us · info@safestepsccs.com.au · 0475 201 348
Related services
- Supervised contact visits
- Supervised changeovers
- Off-site supervised visits
- Court reports
- Intake and risk assessment
- Guide: children’s contact services in Perth
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice.