More than 150 children known to the Department of Community Services died last year, but child welfare groups say it is not just the department that should be blamed.
The shocking figures have been brought up at a budget estimates hearing, with 156 children known to DOCS dying in 2007, compared to 114 the year before.
The Opposition has demanding a Royal Commission but Andrew McAllum from the Australian Children’s Welfare Agency says there are other angles to take.
“Outrage is one thing, to do something about it is another,” Mr McAllum said.
“I think we need to make sure that we just don’t think all the problems are actually DOCS’s problems.
“There are community problems. Are there other services that could have been put in play.
“What’s the role of health? What’s the role of education? What’s the role of housing?”