Christopher Galimitakis

I am driven by the belief that every child has the inherent right to a safe and responsive environment that strives to meet their needs regardless of their experiences or what they have done.

I am a clinical psychologist committed to exploring how systems can better understand and respond to young people dual-involved in both the youth justice and child protection systems - some of the most vulnerable and complex youth in our community.

I first began working with these young people as a mentor. There, I witnessed their attempts to understand two complex systems and navigate extensive networks of paid supports within a timetable of meetings and appointments, all whilst voicing their wish to live a ‘normal’ life.

I have since worked as a clinical psychologist in youth justice and currently in child protection, delivering specialised psychological assessment and intervention, consultation to support effective decision-making, and advocacy promoting the rights and voices of young people and their families. Throughout, I have been entrusted with stories of difficulty, pain, strength and resilience that have shaped my personal and professional ethos. I have seen first-hand the value of strong therapeutic relationships and connected support networks grounded in a shared holistic understanding of a young person’s needs irrespective of the different purposes and obligations of the two systems. I feel an unwavering responsibility to use these stories and experiences as the impetus for critical reflection on our systems and the catalyst for meaningful systemic improvement.

My Fellowship seeks to examine established models of collaboration between youth justice and child protection systems, alongside policies and practices tailored to this cohort’s uniquely complex needs. Drawing from these findings and the voices of young people in our community, I aim to maximise their opportunities to experience the safe and responsive childhoods they deserve.