A Care by Secretary Order is made because the magistrate at the Children's Court determines the child's safety and wellbeing are at risk.
This order means the Secretary of the Department has exclusive parental responsibility for the child's care and has all the rights and responsibilities that a parent would normally have. The purpose of this order is almost always to make arrangements for someone else to care for the child permanently.
A Care by Secretary order lasts for two years. If a permanent or long-term carer has not been found for the child, The Department can apply for the order to be extended for a further two years each time.