The latest Report on Government Services data reveals troubling trends in South Australia’s child protection system, with nearly $1 billion spent annually—primarily on out-of-home care—while investment in family support and early intervention remains inadequate. Despite efforts to improve, too many children are removed from their families, with Aboriginal children disproportionately affected, making up 39% of those in care despite being just 5.5% of the child population. Alarmingly, one in 25 children in care has experienced abuse or neglect while in the system, raising serious concerns about safety and outcomes. This briefing paper from SACOSS examines these trends and advocates for shifting resources toward prevention, keeping families together whenever possible.