An ACT Legislative Assembly inquiry will investigate the systemic failures involving a major child protection case, with support from all parties, despite debate descending into point-scoring.
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The Assembly debated Opposition MLA Elizabeth Kikkert's proposal for an inquiry into the case on Thursday, after tense tripartite negotiations over the idea in recent weeks.
The inquiry will investigate the case of a mother who had her five children, three of whom are indigenous, removed from her, leading to a five-year legal battle and the decision ultimately being overturned.
It comes amid broader political debate about the transparency of, and review rights within, the ACT's child protection system.
Mrs Kikkert, Children's Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith and Greens MLA Caroline Le Couteur reached a deal to establish the inquiry this week.
But when Liberal indigenous affairs spokesman James Milligan raised the government's poor track record on indigenous issues, Ms Stephen-Smith took umbrage.
Ms Stephen-Smith admitted there was more to do, but defended her record, citing a recent fall in the number of indigenous children entering care.
The inquiry will examine the response to reports on the system back to the 2004 Vardon report; particularly on transparency, accountability and review mechanisms.
While focused on examining the systemic issues raised by the case, it will accept submissions from the public about the entire system to shed further light.
People can give evidence anonymously and support will be available for witnesses. A report is due by July 2020.
