CODE 1   Substantiated

An investigation is classified as ‘substantiated’ where there is reasonable cause to believe that the child has been, is being, or is likely to be abused or neglected or otherwise harmed. Substantiation does not necessarily require sufficient evidence for a successful prosecution and does not imply that treatment or case management was, or is to be, provided.

CODE 2   Not substantiated

An investigation is classified as ‘not substantiated’ where an investigation has concluded that there is no reasonable cause to suspect prior, current or future abuse or neglect or harm to the child.

CODE 3   Investigation in process

An investigation that is in process is a notification which was investigated, but where the investigation was not completed and an investigation outcome was not recorded by the end of the reference period.

CODE 4   Investigation closed - no outcome possible

An investigation that is closed with no outcome possible is a notification which was investigated, but where the investigation was not able to be finalised in order to reach the outcome of substantiated or not substantiated. These files would be closed for administrative purposes. This may happen, for example, in cases where the family has relocated.

CODE 97   Not applicable

No investigation was conducted.

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare