Considered as one of Australia's most significant social problems, reports show more than 32,000 Australian children last year were proven to have been abused or neglected.

The 15 local agencies who form the South Coast Child Wellbeing Network, work on the notion that protecting children is everybody's business.

SCCWN will hold their 8th annual Child Protection Week professional Development Day on September 10 at The Pavillon.

"See me. Hear me. Walk with me. Considering the rights of a child in our work" is the theme of this year's event.

"The conference is in support of National Child Protection Week which is held across Australia (September 1-7). Together, we are committed to educating and preventing child abuse across our communities," SCCWN member Samantha Lukey said.

Annette Michaux, who has over 20 years experience in child and family practice, will give a keynote address on the day titled 'Children thrive when their parents are supported: let's tell a new child development story'.

Read more: Alarming number of children sexually abusing other children, study shows

Kiama MP and the Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, Gareth Ward will open the event.

"It is important to us and the community, that child protection becomes a conversation, and we appreciate the Minister taking the time to be a part of such an important day in our local community," member Johanne Sneddon said.

For more information visit the South Coast Child Wellbeing Network Facebook page or email Johanne on Johanne.sneddon@health.nsw.gov.au.